Circular-Economy-Based Approach to Utilizing Cardboard in Sustainable Building Construction

Abstract

Circular-economy-based sustainability approaches in construction are gaining wide acceptance due to the volume of waste generation and increasing demand for natural materials. Propelled by the recent timber shortage in Australia and the issues of waste management of cardboard, this study aims to analyse the possibilities of using cardboard as a construction material, based on its initial strength and multiple recycling options. A systematic review of research papers published in the last 40 years has been undertaken using a single keyword search to select the database. The review is presented in terms of the characteristics of the cardboard, dimensional stability, durability, structural strength, design, and analysis of cardboard. Recurring themes are evaluated using a latent Dirichlet allocation approach to identify the factors that ascertain the suitability of cardboard. Analysis reveals that despite certain constraints, such as water absorption and fire resistance, cardboard can be used as a replacement for timber by overcoming such limitations. This observation has benefits for the construction industry and the recycling industry. This study found that cardboard adheres to the circular economy principles, which should inspire policymakers. The paper concludes by highlighting the current circumstances and scientific challenges that impede the usage of cardboard in construction and recommends potential works needed to address these challenges for the benefit of practitioners and researchers.

Formwork Engineering for Sustainable Concrete Construction

“…Sustainability is becoming a key concern in the construction industry, which is constantly exploring the opportunities of reduced environmental impact through the development of new materials [130], technologies [167], and circular concepts [168]. This has led to the development of more sustainable formwork systems, including the use of recycled or recyclable materials, reusable formwork, and permanent formwork that becomes an integral part of the final structure.…”

Testing the Suitability of the Waste Packaging Cardboards for External Environmental Conditions to Reuse as Animal Shelter

“…Cardboard is known to be a cost-effective and most common material as recyclable and sustainable [1,2]. In this respect, actions related to recycling in the paper and cardboard sector will contribute to the prevention of climate change and reducing the carbon footprint [3]. According to a market research, global paper and board consumption reached a total of 408 million tons in 2021.…”

“…In a study, the structures that Japanese architect Shigeru Ban built by recycling cardboard show that they have enough strength and durability to create a cardboard living space [9]. However, cardboard material tends to deform under load and if a long-term structure is to be built, the final durability of this structure should be analyzed [3].…”