Last edited 24 Mar 2021

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BRE Group Researcher Website

Material resource efficiency in construction: Supporting a circular economy

BRE is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.

On 1 January 2017, BRE published Material resource efficiency in construction: Supporting a circular economy (FB 85), written by Katherine Adams and Gilli Hobbs.

Material resource efficiency in construction front cover.jpg

The guide defines material resource efficiency as ‘doing more with less’, that is, using material resources in the most sustainable manner while minimising their environmental impact:

The preferred option is not to produce waste, followed by reuse, recycling, then disposal.

Material resource efficiency can be applied across a construction project’s life cycle, with the greatest benefits at the early stages. Greater material resource efficiency requires that the different parts of the construction supply chain to work together. This can result in cost savings, reduced environmental impact and an enhanced reputation.

The guide explains the background, drivers and potential benefits of material resource efficiency and provides practical advice for achieving higher levels efficiency. It is intended for anyone involved in construction projects, but in particular; clients, designers and contractors. It is also relevant to those who provide products and services, such as manufacturers, suppliers and waste management companies.

The contents of the guide are:

--BRE Group

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