Circular Economy in the Construction Sector

Since the publication of the Club of Rome's report "The Limits to Growth" in 1972, the urgency to shift towards a non-linear economic model has become increasingly evident. This was further reinforced by the planetary boundaries theory, which underscores the need for innovative production and consumption systems to ensure sustainable resource use. Recently, the concept of a circular economy (CE), popularized by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, has gained international prominence. Despite its alignment with critical public policies such as the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and the European Green Deal, substantial challenges persist in realizing the CE's full potential, particularly in the construction sector. This sector plays a vital economic role while grappling with significant environmental and social issues. Therefore, this reprint, Circular Economy in the Construction Sector, addresses these challenges by exploring CE principles and innovative approaches, aiming to bridge knowledge gaps and promote sustainability in construction practices worldwide.