Circular Economy Integration in Construction: Conceptual Framework for Modular Housing Adoption

• Author(s): Adepeju Nafisat Sanusi ; Olamide Folahanmi Bayeroju ; Zamathula Queen Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu
• Paper ID: 1710575
• Page: 279-295
• Published Date: 30-09-2019
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 3 Issue 3 September-2019

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and housing shortages in both developed and emerging economies have intensified the demand for sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective construction solutions. Traditional construction methods are resource-intensive, generate significant waste, and often fail to meet long-term environmental and social objectives. In this context, modular housing—characterized by prefabrication, off-site assembly, and standardized design—offers a promising approach to accelerating housing delivery while enhancing efficiency. Integrating circular economy (CE) principles into modular construction can further optimize resource use, minimize waste, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance the lifecycle sustainability of housing projects. This presents a conceptual framework for the adoption of circular economy principles in modular housing construction, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities in urban housing markets. The framework incorporates key dimensions, including governance and institutional support, design and technical considerations, resource and operational mechanisms, financial models, and monitoring and evaluation strategies. It emphasizes the use of innovative digital technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics to track materials, optimize resource allocation, and ensure compliance with sustainability standards. Multi-stakeholder collaboration, encompassing policymakers, private developers, financiers, and local communities, is highlighted as essential for effective implementation, scaling, and knowledge transfer. The framework also identifies emerging trends, including the integration of circular materials, modular design innovations, and technology-enabled supply chain optimization. Regional variations in adoption, policy alignment, and financing mechanisms are analyzed, highlighting contextual factors that influence feasibility and scalability. By offering a structured, multi-dimensional approach, this conceptual framework provides actionable guidance for policymakers, construction practitioners, and researchers seeking to advance sustainable housing solutions. It underscores the potential of circular economy integration to transform modular housing into a resilient, resource-efficient, and socially inclusive infrastructure strategy, thereby contributing to long-term urban sustainability and climate-resilient development.

Keywords

Circular Economy, Modular Housing, Sustainable Construction, Prefabrication, Off-Site Assembly, Material Reuse, Resource Efficiency, Lifecycle Planning, Waste Minimization, Design Standardization

Citations

IRE Journals:
Adepeju Nafisat Sanusi , Olamide Folahanmi Bayeroju , Zamathula Queen Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu "Circular Economy Integration in Construction: Conceptual Framework for Modular Housing Adoption" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 3 Issue 3 2019 Page 279-295

IEEE:
Adepeju Nafisat Sanusi , Olamide Folahanmi Bayeroju , Zamathula Queen Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu "Circular Economy Integration in Construction: Conceptual Framework for Modular Housing Adoption" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 3(3)