Material circularity potential for construction materials – The case of transportation infrastructure in India

Abstract The construction of new buildings and infrastructural projects across the globe poses numerous challenges in terms of material extraction, availability of resources, disposal of wastes and pollution. In such circumstances, it is imperative that a shift be defined for re-circulation of materials back to the construction economy. In this research article, the authors present a complete analysis for the potential to implement material circularity in construction sector – by focusing on bitumen, concrete and steel in land transportation infrastructure. A mixed methodology of literature review along with qualitative observations and interviews is used for analyzing the potential ways for adoption of circular-economy in construction sector. The authors have tried to incorporate all the ideas of circular-economy for determination of the re-circulation potential of construction materials. Further, the current scenario is presented in terms of material management in India – a developing country. The results of the research determine a model for incorporation of circular-economy in Indian infrastructure sector based on the gap between the existing material management strategies and the potential to enable circularity for bitumen, concrete and steel. The research suggests the need for technical bodies to develop rules and standards for reuse of materials. Also, there exists a need for government leadership for promotion of circular-economy – by stricter construction and demolition waste management (CDWM) rules, taxes on open disposal and mining, subsidy benefits for establishing circular businesses and facilitating public procurement for enabling circular material flow.