Life Cycle Cost in Circular Economy of Buildings by Applying Building Information Modeling (BIM): A State of the Art

Abstract

The building industry is one of the largest consumers of materials resources and significant contributors to global waste. Applying core principles of circular economy (CE) could significantly help the environment by reducing waste and decreasing the life cycle cost of buildings. Several strategies to implement the concept of CE in buildings include design for deconstruction, adaptability, and flexibility. However, implementing these design strategies could face constraints. In this study, we identified 22 barriers related to the adoption of CE in buildings, as reported in the literature. We discussed the role of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in overcoming those barriers. This paper demonstrates how BIM can facilitate the implementation of CE principles while providing critical insights into the life cycle costs of circular buildings. We identified 14 ways to use BIM to foster the implementation of a circular economy approach. To achieve these objectives, we have undertaken a thorough review of recent publications that explore CE design strategies, Life Cycle Costing in the circular construction of buildings, and BIM developments in the building industry. This literature review is based on 88 articles covering BIM’s role in enhancing the management of a building’s end-of-life while reducing the life cycle cost in the circular construction of buildings.

A New Building Information Modelling-Based Approach to Automate Recyclability Rate Calculations for Buildings

“…By leveraging BIM and relevant concepts like LCA integrated with other advanced technologies, such as predictive analytics and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference Systems (ANFIS), maintenance can be proactively scheduled, and materials can be efficiently reused or recycled, aligning with CE principles [10,34]. For instance, Akinadé and Oyedele (2019) developed a BIM-based tool that predicts construction waste, facilitating material optimization and waste reduction, which are essential for circularity [35].…”

Circular Economy in the Building Sector: Investigating Awareness, Attitudes, Barriers, and Enablers through a Case Study in Saudi Arabia

“…The integration of BIM in the construction of circular buildings is important as BIM serves as a digital hub, allowing for better collaboration among stakeholders throughout a project's lifecycle [55]. Moreover, BIM allows for material tracking and management, which facilitates the identification, documentation, and potential reuse of materials [14,56]. BIM's design optimization features empower decision makers to analyse various scenarios, aiding in informed choices regarding material selection, resource utilisation, and waste reduction.…”

“…Leising et al [13] conceptualised the CE approach for circular buildings as "a life-cycle approach that optimises the buildings' useful lifetime, integrating the end-of-life phase in the design and uses new ownership models where materials are only temporarily stored in the building that acts as a material bank". Circular building design revolves around the core principles of adaptability, flexibility, and deconstruction [14]. Askar et al [15] emphasised that designing buildings under the principles of CE necessitates a strong focus on the end-of-life phase of the building's components and materials.…”

Utilising BIM on LCC to Enhance the Sustainability of Saudi Residential Projects Through Simulation. A Case Study at the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

“…It is therefore critical to address data integration challenges to enable seamless information interchange among various BIM platforms, as well as overcoming cooperation barriers among project stakeholders, while fully embedding BIM into project management workflows. This is important as BIM and Circular Economy principles interact at the forefront of sustainable and efficient construction practices [15][16][17][18]. For example, BIM enables stakeholders to cooperate during the structure's full lifecycle.…”