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Towards A Circular Economy: Overcoming the Challenges Faced with Implementing Material Passports (MPs) for Existing Buildings

Part 2 Dissertation 2024
Joseph Mulholland
University of Lincoln Lincoln | UK
This dissertation explores the use of Material Passports (MPs) as a tool to evaluate the recyclability and environmental impact of construction materials (CM), repurposing potential waste into valuable resources. By assessing the recyclability and environmental impact of CM, MPs oBer a unique opportunity to re-value existing buildings, emphasising a regenerative Construction Industry (CI). The aim of this study is to propose a preliminary roadmap for implementing MPs within the current RIBA Plan of Work Stages for existing buildings, facilitating a transition towards a circular-economy.

A critical literature review of current discourse on decarbonising the CI, case studies of MP usage in the UK, and interviews with experts and architects were conducted to assess how to encourage practitioners to adopt MPs in general practice. The study found that despite growing interest in reducing carbon waste, standardised implementation is stunted by the existing linear economic model and a lack of post-construction information gathering. However, the adoption of BIM tools and the digitisation of building information into MPs can rectify these challenges, promoting sustainable practices.

This research concludes the urgent need for a paradigm shift in the CI, positioning MPs as pivotal in enhancing resource eBiciency, driving sustainable development, and advancing a circular and regenerative economy.

Joseph Mulholland

Tutor(s)
Amira Elnokaly
Dr Kathleen Watt
2024
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