Circular Economy Concepts and Possibilities in the Prefabrication Industry: A Focus on Timber-Made Systems

Ghobadi M. and Sepasgozar S.

Chapter 8 in Building a Body of Knowledge in Modern Methods of Construction and Offsite Construction, 2025, pp 191-228 from World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd.

Abstract: To promote sustainable practices, this chapter examines the intersection between prefabricated construction, circular economy (CE), and digital technologies in the construction sector. This chapter focuses on timber-made construction systems in particular. By examining the synergies between prefabrication and digital technologies, this chapter will demonstrate how they may improve life cycle sustainability, resource utilisation, and waste reduction. Research in digital technologies, CE, and prefabricated construction, including the versatile applications of engineered wood products (EWPs), was conducted through a literature review method. In addition to maintaining structural integrity, these engineered materials ensure sustainability by utilising precision manufacturing technology. Developing a symbiotic relationship between digital technologies and prefabricated construction will address both resource and waste efficiency challenges, ushering in a more sustainable building era. A key catalyst for CE advancement is the incorporation of digital technologies into prefabrication construction. EWPs are designed, cut, and assembled more efficiently in controlled factory environments due to the precision provided by digital tools. By enhancing these synergies, construction timelines are streamlined, and material waste is minimised, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and sustainable construction sector. The study provides the impacts of using prefabricated construction based on a CE strategy from social, environmental, and economic perspectives. The use of wood in prefabricated construction is an energy-efficient alternative to concrete and steel, and it is a sustainable construction material. Researchers and policymakers interested in CE, as well as engineers and architects working in the construction and design of buildings, will benefit from this study.

Keywords: Modern Methods Of Construction; Offsite Construction; Prefabrication; Digital Technology; Sustainability; Circular Economy; Supply Chain; Procurement; Health & Safety; Risk; Capacity and Capability; Offsite Manufacturing; Preassembly; Innovation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D24 L7 L74 M11 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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