Quantity surveyors incorporating circularity at early project design stage: A literature review

Consumption of natural resources has followed a linear approach known as the 'take, make, use, dispose model'. Whereas, the Circular Economy, where the leading design principles are to eliminate waste and circulate products / materials at their highest value possible. The architecture, engineering and construction sector is recognised as one of the largest consumers of raw materials and to be systemically linear in its processes and delivery, therefore, this presents an opportunity to achieve effective change at scale. All built environment disciplines and their skillsets will be required for effective implementation of 'Circular Construction'. With attention to Quantity Surveyors and their role, they must be prepared to cost a circular proposal or present alternatives. This area is still within its infancy and presentation of circular costs continues to evolve, lacking in consistency and standardisation. The literature review seeks to scope what guidance is currently available at early project design stages to realise the full potential of circularity.