3546 Research Report: Embedding circularity into the construction and decommissioning of assets (Phase 1)

Overview:

The guidance aims to enhance circularity in the construction and energy sectors, both onshore and offshore, by emphasising the reuse and recycling of materials. Recognising the pivotal role of these sectors in achieving a circular economy, the guidance focuses on guiding construction and energy professionals in embedding circular practices during asset construction and decommissioning. The project unfolds in two phases: Phase 1 involves a desk-based review of existing guidance on material circularity, identifying gaps, and informing the scope of Phase 2. The latter phase entails developing a global guidance document that addresses the identified gaps and is practical and cross-sectoral, catering to the diverse member base of the Energy Institute (EI) and CIRIA.

The methodology in Phase 1 centres on six key materials, excluding hazardous ones, relevant to construction and decommissioning. A literature search explores circular economy aspects of concrete, aggregate, asphalt, ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, and composites, considering both post-use materials and built components. The results of this search inform Phase 1's output, revealing circular economy risks, opportunities, consensus, contentions, and considerations, along with a focus for the guidance document in Phase 2. Observations highlight the applicability of circularity approaches from the general construction sector to energy assets and classify barriers to materials circularity into intrinsic and external properties. Opportunities for cross-sectoral reuse are noted, particularly with aggregates, and practical solutions like construction exchange platforms are recognised.

In the conclusions, it is noted that while information availability is high for certain materials, limitations in circularity uptake stem from legislation, policy, standards, market maturity, and risks associated with reusing materials. A gap is identified in infrastructure guidance beyond industry norms, presenting an avenue for future guidance. The guidance likewise underscores the need to engage the energy and construction sector in adopting circular practices through well-defined guidance.