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A Technical Paper

Delivered at the
National Association of
Building Student's
South West Regional
Workshop.

By

Bldr. Dr. Makanjuola


z Sina Abayomi
Federal University of
Technology, Akure,
Ondo State.
Building a Sustainable Future:
Circular Economy and Waste Held at 1000 capacity
Auditorium, University
Management in Construction of Osun Main Campus,
Osogbo, Osun State.

20th, April, 2024


INTRODUCTION
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 the construction industry plays a pivotal role.

 However, its traditional linear model, characterized by the


extraction of resources, production, consumption, and disposal, is
proving to be unsustainable.

 Embracing the principles of a circular economy offers a promising


alternative, revolutionizing how we approach construction while
mitigating environmental impacts.

 Embracing a circular economy in construction is imperative for


building a sustainable future
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Understanding Circular Economy
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 A circular economy is a regenerative system designed to minimize waste and maximize
resource efficiency by keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible.

 It is based on three key principles: reduce, reuse, and recycle.

 Unlike the linear 'take-make-dispose' model, the circular economy aims to close the loop,
where materials are continuously circulated to retain their value and minimize environmental
degradation.

 The circular economy is an economic system aimed at minimizing waste and making the
most of resources.

 In a circular economy, products, materials, and resources are kept in use for as long as
possible, and the value of products and materials is maintained for as long as possible.

 The goal is to create a closed-loop system where resources are continually circulated within
the economy rather than being used once and then discarded. By transitioning to a circular
economy, businesses and societies can reduce their environmental impact, conserve
resources, and create new economic opportunities.
principles of the circular economy
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 Design for longevity

 Reuse and repair

 Resource efficiency

 Closed-loop systems

 Collaboration and innovation

 Value preservation

 Economic opportunities
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What are construction wastes?

 Demolition debris

 New construction debris

 Excess materials

 Packaging waste

 Land clearing debris

 Hazardous waste

 Miscellaneous waste
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Causes of wastes in construction

 Over ordering and overstocking

 Poor inventory management

 Design changes

 Inefficient construction practices

 Packaging waste

 Demolition practices

 Lack of recycling and reuse

 Hazardous materials

 Contractual arrangements
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The 3R of waste management

 Reduce

 Reuse

 Recycle
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Application of circular economy in
Construction waste management

1. Design for De9construction

2. Material Reuse

3. Recycled Content

4. Waste Valorization
Challenges and Opportunities
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 Despite its potential, implementing a circular economy in construction poses several challenges.

 These include the need for standardized regulations, technological advancements, and industry-
wide collaboration. Additionally, shifting from a linear to a circular mindset requires a cultural shift
and investment in research and development.

 However, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Adopting circular practices in construction not
only reduces waste and resource depletion but also fosters innovation, creates new business
opportunities, and enhances resilience against supply chain disruptions.

 Moreover, it aligns with global sustainability goals, such as the United Nations' Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), driving positive environmental, social, and economic outcomes.The
transition to a circular economy in construction is imperative for building a sustainable future. By
reimagining the way we design, build, and manage infrastructure, we can minimize waste,
conserve resources, and mitigate environmental impacts.

 Embracing circularity is not just a choice but a necessity for the construction industry to thrive in
the face of evolving challenges and contribute to a healthier planet for generations to come.
Expanding on the Circular Economy
 Innovation
z and Collaboration Approach in Construction
 Digitalization and Data Analytics

 Circular Business Models

 Education and Awareness

 Policy and Regulation

 Community Engagement and Social Equity

 Circular Cities and Urban Planning

 Life Cycle Assessment and Environmental Certification

 Circular Retrofitting and Adaptive Reuse

 Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration Platforms

 Financial Mechanisms and Investment


Expanding on the Circular Economy
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Approach in Construction

 Circular Supply Chains and Procurement

 Circular Building Materials and Technologies

 Circular Economy Metrics and Performance Indicators

 Circular Construction Standards and Certification

 Circular Design Thinking and Innovation Hubs

 Circular Economy Training and Capacity Building

 Circular Construction Demonstration Projects:

 Circular Economy Incentives and Policy Frameworks

 Circular Economy Awareness Campaigns and Outreach


Conclusion
 The transition to a circular economy in
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construction requires a concerted effort from all
stakeholders, including government, industry,
academia, and civil society.

 By implementing incentives and policy


frameworks, raising awareness, fostering
collaboration, and investing in capacity building,
stakeholders can unlock the full potential of
circularity in construction.

 Together, we can build a future where buildings


are not only symbols of progress and prosperity
but also beacons of sustainability and resilience,
contributing to a healthier planet and brighter

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