A MULTI-STAKEHOLDER FRAMEWORK FOR OPERATIONALIZING THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT: VALIDATION IN SUSTAINABLE DESIGN AND PLANNING

Abstract

Purpose: The transition from a linear to a Circular Economy (CE) model is critical for mitigating the substantial environmental impact of the built environment. Current approaches lack a holistic, validated framework that effectively integrates the diverse responsibilities of multi-stakeholders during the crucial design and planning phases of construction projects. This study addresses this gap by developing and validating a comprehensive framework for CE operationalization.

Methods: An iterative, mixed-methods approach was employed, beginning with a systematic literature review to define the core principles of the CE in construction. This led to the development of the Multi-Stakeholder CE Operationalization (MS-CEO) Framework, structured across four dimensions: Material Flow, Systemic Design, Digital Enablement, and Governance. The framework's Strategic Indicators were then validated using a Delphi method with an international panel of expert practitioners and academics.

Results: The MS-CEO Framework successfully maps specific, measurable indicators to various stakeholders across the project lifecycle. Validation results demonstrated a high level of consensus regarding the framework's relevance and feasibility for implementation. Key findings emphasize the necessity of integrating Digital Enablement, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), to successfully execute Material Flow and Systemic Design strategies like Design for Deconstruction.

Conclusion: The MS-CEO Framework provides a theoretically grounded and practically validated tool for project teams seeking to institutionalize CE principles. Its adoption is predicted to facilitate waste reduction, optimize resource loops, and drive value creation across the built environment sector.