Key barriers to circular economy adoption in the vietnamese construction industry: The DEMATEL approach

Abstract

The application of circular economy (CE) in the construction industry has been implemented in Vietnam for a long time to reduce emissions and optimize resource consumption through the recycling and reuse of construction components and waste. Despite many economic, social and environmental benefits, CE still faces several barriers that hinder its development commensurate with its role in the Vietnamese construction industry. The article uses the DEMATEL method to determine the importance and cause-effect relationship of CE barriers. The research results show that BA12 - "Lack of cooperation between stakeholders in the construction supply chain"; BA5 - "Mechanisms and policies to support businesses in applying the CE have not been effectively implemented"; BA11 - "The linear production and consumption culture of stakeholders "; BA2 – “The small market for environmentally friendly construction products is not enough to attract investors” and BA10 – “Limited awareness of stakeholders about the circular economy” are the 5 most important barriers. However, barrier BA9 – “The complexity of construction materials and structures” ranked only 9th in importance is the "cause" barrier, having the greatest impact on all other barriers. The above research results of the article are an important scientific basis for policymakers and stakeholders to consider and develop strategies to develop circular economy in the construction industry in the future.