Reinforcing loops and resistance: How barriers to circularity sustain the linear economy in construction materials

This paper uses a systems model to examine how economic, technological, institutional and social barriers reinforce one another and slow circularity in construction materials. It focuses on aggregates and reuse, showing how cost differences, material-quality requirements, weak policy frameworks and low market demand can create reinforcing resistance loops. The model suggests that addressing several barriers together is more effective than isolated interventions, while distinguishing increased recycling volume from retaining material value through higher-quality reuse.

Grafström, J. (2026). Reinforcing loops and resistance: How barriers to circularity sustain the linear economy in construction materials. Advances in Civil Engineering, 2026, 4795370. https://doi.org/10.1155/adce/4795370. Reinforcing loops and resistance: How barriers to circularity sustain the linear economy in construction materials