Role of reverse logistics (RL) towards achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) in construction in developing countries

Nicholas Chileshe and M.K.C.S. Wijewickrama

Chapter 25 in Research Companion to Advances in the Construction Industry in the Global South, 2026, pp 604-627 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: The linear “take–make–dispose” model is criticised for its environmental impacts and challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Reverse logistics (RL), the driving force behind promoting a circular economy, is helping to gain traction towards achieving SDGs. This chapter investigates the role of RL in the effort to achieve the SDGs in the construction industry in developing countries, where there are challenges including resource availability, government involvement, and industry nature. This chapter examines the relationships between the enablers, challenges, drivers, and barriers to implementing RL, highlighting their collective contribution to advancing the SDGs. The drivers for RL adoption from the past inform the enablers in the future. If the challenges are not addressed, they become barriers to future RL adoption. Identifying these relationships enables policymakers and practitioners to develop strategic plans for implementing RL to achieve the SDGs. The chapter proposes further research areas on RL adoption to achieve the SDGs.

Keywords: Circular economy; Construction industry; Developing countries; Reverse logistics; Roadmap; Sustainable development goals (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035349012
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