Abstract

As a major and crucial sector, the construction sector has a global mandate to transition from a linear economy to a more sustainable circular economy (CE). Construction can overcome the limitations of the linear economy with the use of digital twinning (DT). Considering the current economic climate, promoting circularity through digital identity (twins) has become a critical topic. Moreover, a shift towards a CE has become imperative with the increasing emphasis on reusing and recycling materials and products. There is little known about the role that DT can play in improving CE practices and outcomes. Thus, this study aimed to address this gap in knowledge by investigating the benefits and enablers of adopting DT for enhancing CE in the UK construction industry. A structured questionnaire survey was used to collect data from construction sustainability professionals with UK experience in both DT and CE. The study utilised statistical data analysis techniques such as standard deviation, ranking of mean scores, and percentage calculations to examine the collected data and draw conclusions out of it. Results from the analysis indicated that the reduction of construction waste, facilitation of identifying recycling opportunities, and predictive maintenance are the major benefits of DT. An integrated data ecosystem promoting advanced data analytics, advanced modelling, simulation tools, predictive analytics, continuous monitoring, and feedback loops top the list of enablers of DT integration in CE. The findings provide insights for the development of strategies to successfully adopt digital twins, ultimately promoting a more sustainable and efficient construction industry. It is recommended that the UK Government establishes legislation and policies that could encourage construction industry stakeholders to fully embrace DT integration in improving CE.

Keywords: Construction, Circular Economy, Digital Twins, Enablers, Benefits, UK.