Editorial: Breaking the mold, circular construction for a greener and more efficient built environment

The concept of a circular economy (CE) encompasses a comprehensive approach. This model
can be summarised as three fundamental principles: (1) Ensuring the protection and
enhancement of natural resources requires careful management of finite reserves and a
mindful approach to utilise renewable resources in a balanced manner; (2) maximise resource
efficiency by constantly cycling products, components and materials at their highest utility in
both technical and biological systems and (3) improve the effectiveness of the foster system
by identifying and eliminating any negative impacts (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2013;
van Stijn and Gruis, 2020). Globally, a high environmental footprint is associated with the
construction industry, which consumes much energy and resources and contributes
significantly to carbon emissions. Many construction materials are designed and assembled
without the ability to recycle them back into the circle. Consequently, around one-third of
global solid waste is generated by this massive industry (Sivashanmugam et al., 2023). From a
statistical perspective, the construction industry is responsible for over 30% of the extraction
of natural resources, 25% of the solid waste generated and 40% of greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions. Around one-third of a building’s emissions can be attributed to embodied carbon
in construction, demolition and the supply chain (EurActiv, 2021). This significantly
contributes to the overall carbon footprint and cannot be ignored.