Circular Economy in the Construction Sector: A Case Study of Santiago de Cali (Colombia)

Abstract

The circular economy, a new paradigm of technological and economic development, is of great importance in developing countries, particularly in the construction sector, one of the most relevant in Colombia. In the Latin American context, Colombia has one of the most important construction industries, contributing to the social and productive development of the country. However, this sector is also responsible for serious environmental problems and social conflicts. Therefore, it is imperative to work with all actors of the value chain to transform the construction sector from a linear economy to a circular economy model. Therefore, this article describes the circular economy model proposed for Santiago de Cali, which is mainly oriented to the analysis and efficient use of construction materials, mostly taking into account the recovery of ecosystems and the circular flow of rocky materials. This model includes an analysis of the production of construction materials, construction process, use and operation, and completion of the life cycle of buildings and infrastructure. In particular, the model proposes an innovative product portfolio for the use of construction and demolition waste (C&DW) supported in applied research (case studies). The portfolio consists of family products, such as recycled aggregates or eco-aggregates, eco-concretes and mortars, eco-prefabricated products and modules, and smart construction materials. In addition, this model describes the C&DW management system and some characteristics of the Technological and Environmental Park (TEP), the main strategy for C&DW valorization in the city.

Challenges and Opportunities of Using Titanium Dioxide Photocatalysis on Cement-Based Materials

“…Environmental and weathering conditions are demanding very efficient photocatalyst materials or even complementary technologies, e.g., coming from the architectural design, to develop self-cleaning, air-purifying and antimicrobial properties on buildings and infrastructure. In order to achieve this goal, more realistic laboratory tests, modelling prior to real application, Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) and Social Life Cycle Assessments (S-LCA) should be performed; particularly the latter two, as self-cleaning, antimicrobial and air-purifying properties have a positive potential impact by increasing building and infrastructure durability and reducing air pollution, while nanomaterial production has a potential negative environmental impact, a life cycle thinking approach, which is about going beyond the traditional focus on production site and manufacturing processes to include environmental, social and economic impacts of a product over its entire life cycle, is required to develop truly circular economy models in the construction sector [68,69].…”

Circular Economy Business Model in the Construction Industry: A Systematic Review

“…Hence, this study aims to develop a conceptual model for construction organisations' adoption of CEBM for their organisations by first defining the concept of CEBM in construction and, next, by developing a Conceptual Circular Economy Business Model Canvas (CEBMC) applicable to the construction organisational context. The existing studies on CE in the construction context have focused on different subject areas, for instance, resource reuse [19][20][21][22], construction and demolition waste management [23][24][25][26], construction supply chain management [27], the integration of digital technologies [28][29][30][31], stakeholder collaboration and management [32], and offsite construction [19,33]. A few studies have discussed CEBM in the context of construction [34,35].…”

Developing a Decision-Making Support System for a Smart Construction and Demolition Waste Transition to a Circular Economy

“…The transition to a circular economy system in the construction industry offers various benefits, including economic growth, improved material efficiency, increased value throughout life cycles, waste reduction, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability [36,37]. Overcoming these barriers requires a comprehensive approach, including regulatory reforms, engagement with stakeholders, capacity building, and knowledge dissemination [38].…”