Barriers for the circular reuse of steel in the Belgian construction sector: an industry-wide perspective

Abstract

The construction industry is responsible for approximately 40% of the worldwide material consumption. Therefore, the transition to a circular construction industry is of primary importance. In a circular economy, the maximum usage and preservation of materials and energy is suggested. The reuse of components is considered a circular economy best practice. This paper investigates the reuse of steel construction elements in Belgium and identifies the existing barriers. A series of semi-structured interviews was conducted with a wide range of stakeholders representing the whole Belgian construction sector. The identified critical barriers to steel reuse are cost, demand and time. Subsequently, these barriers were tested and quantified in practice in co-operation with a demolition contractor. A comparison was made between demolition and deconstruction of steel porticos considering cost, time and demand. It was found that, in practice, demand is the most pressing obstacle. Overcoming this obstacle will require a coordinated approach throughout the Belgian construction chain: improved deconstruction procedures on-site, a platform to match supply and demand, standardisation of reusable steel elements, governmental policies and design strategies.