Projects as drivers of sustainability: How the adoption of the reuse principle affects the front-end of a construction project

Abstract

Project research has long considered sustainability, but more knowledge is needed about how projects can drive the sustainability transition. In the context of project business, the circular economy (CE) principle of reuse displays considerable potential for reducing resource usage. The front-end of a project is a critical phase as the value potential of the project depends on how project actors commit to its objectives, such as sustainability. In this study, we elaborate on how value creation and actor roles are affected during the front-end of a demonstration project that applies the reuse principle in construction. We show that as a project applies this principle, project actors must assume different roles during the front-end and that new types of values emerge through knowledge-sharing, joint development of new practices, and new business opportunities. Based on our observations, we argue that reusing concrete elements has the potential to create significant environmental and economic value and despite several remaining barriers, it could contribute to a wider systemic sustainability transition.