Perspective Chapter on Promoting Circular Design Strategies in Housing Delivery in Nigeria

Abstract

Circular economy principles are gradually replacing the linear economy model, which has been found to promote waste and resource inefficiency. The circular model is of particular interest to the built environment due to its benefits in resource optimization and waste minimization. Given the huge housing deficit in Nigeria and the attendant resources needed to mitigate the deficit, circular strategies are apt for the massive housing delivery required to bridge the deficit. This chapter examines the concept of circular economy as it affects the built environment. Specifically, design strategies that tend to promote circular housing delivery are examined. The public housing delivery process in use in Lagos, Nigeria’s most urbanized city is evaluated to ascertain its alignment with circular principles. The study found that even though opportunities exist for the massive deployment of circular strategies, its adoption is still very low. The chapter recommends more deliberate actions at the design and implementation stages of housing projects to promote circular economy for the housing sector in urban Nigeria.

Benefits of Circular Design Adoption in the Nigerian Building Industry

“…The concept of circular economy (CE) is currently a topic of discussion across different sectors around the world regarding sustainability. İts benefits include reducing the impact of resource extraction and optimising efficiency (Ezema et al, 2023). CE aims to establish waste-free systems by utilising regenerative and restorative approaches through thoughtful design and implementation according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation in 2017.…”