Taxonomy of circular economy terminologies

Abstract

The construction sector predominantly follows a linear economic model, which necessitates a shift towards embracing the Circular Economy (CE) principles. Even though several CE approaches have been introduced for the construction context, numerous barriers have hindered their implementation. Confusion of CE terminologies with a lack of awareness is identified as one of the main barriers to the successful implementation of CE in the construction industry. Hence, this research focuses on differentiating the CE terminologies based on their academic definitions to establish a consolidated and comprehensive understanding and thereby, aims to develop a taxonomy for CE terminologies for the construction industry. This research adopted qualitative comparative literature analysis research methodology and selected individualising comparison as a suitable comparison method. To carry out the comparison, the academic definitions from Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries were compared with the definitions from CE-related construction articles. Subsequently, the consolidated definitions were established for selected terminologies by differentiating their ideas. Consequently, the hierarchy of the terminologies was identified to develop a CE taxonomy. This research provides significant guidance for CE researchers for appropriate CE terminology usage in their research, while industry practitioners can gain a wider understanding of CE for its successful implementation in the industry.