Decision support model for evaluating circular economy strategies in private residential construction

Abstract

The circular economy (CE) presents a promising approach to mitigating resource scarcity and environmental impacts. However, implementing CE in the housing market is challenging due to the lack of tools for effectively evaluating and prioritizing CE strategies. This study utilizes a QFD-TOPSIS approach to develop a practical decision support model for a housing project, facilitating the evaluation of CE building strategies by considering technical difficulties, costs, economic benefits, circularity potential, and market demand. Case study results indicate that prioritizing CE strategies with high circularity potential, low cost, and low technical difficulty is crucial for successful implementation. Sensitivity analyses further demonstrate that increased circularity potential facilitates CE implementation. Furthermore, considerable potential exists for future improvements in market demand and technological advancement. Incorporating these principles into architectural design and construction can yield a healthier and more resource-efficient built environment, thereby realizing the value of CE in the construction industry.