Circular economy adoption practices within the South Australian construction industry: Awareness, challenges and future opportunities

Circular economy (CE) adoption benefits are well reported in literature. However, its uptake in the Australian construction industry (CI) is limited. Therefore, this paper aims to: (1) examine the current awareness of CE practices; (2) identify CE adoption challenges; and (3) recommend future opportunities relating to the CE practices adoption within the South Australian CI. This study adopts mixed-methods sequential exploratory design, qualitative followed by quantitative. Content analysis and descriptive statistics found the CI as becoming more conscious of CE practices, particularly those that prioritise the use of sustainable materials, reducing the amount of waste, and efficient utilisation of available resources. The challenges were limited awareness and understanding, cost implications, resistance to change, lack of suitable technology, regulatory obstacles, economic implications, and a lack of general industry expertise. Opportunities identified include enhanced sustainability, reduced environmental impact, improved resource efficiency, cost savings and competitive advantage. The findings of this study can help inform the construction practitioners on the adoption of CE practices by addressing exclusive area challenges and focusing on opportunities.