A Feasibility Study: Investigating Sustainable Building Practices And The Circular Economy In Modular Structures For Residential Use In Western Canada
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2021-08
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Abstract
The building construction sector is responsible for significant consumption of natural resources, energy, and the production of waste. The increasing scarcity and costs of raw resources for buildings and their components has recently driven industry researchers to investigate alternative building practices. Shifting from linear to circular economies using innovative building concepts of modular construction have been previously identified for their combined potential to reduce inefficiencies, environmental impacts, and contribute towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals. The objective of this study is to investigate the technical and economic feasibility of converging circular business models with residential modular construction in Western Canada. Using an investigative and exploratory approach, the qualitative methods of this research determined that the potential opportunities of incorporating circular principles with modular homebuilding are outweighed by the existing barriers. These concluding findings indicated that the practical application of this circular business model was not currently considered to be feasible.
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Cunningham, N. (2021). A Feasibility Study: Investigating Sustainable Building Practices And The Circular Economy In Modular Structures For Residential Use In Western Canada (Unpublished master's project). University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.