Integrating Circular Economy Strategies into Construction Project Waste Management in Sri Lanka: Barriers and Enablers
Authors
Wanninayaka, W M Buddhika Aruna Kumara
Issue Date
2025.17.12
Degree
Master of Business Administration
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
Open Access
Abstract
This dissertation analyses how Circular Economy (CE) strategies can be integrated into waste management for construction projects in Sri Lanka. The study was motivated by the critical requirement for construction and demolition waste and the lack of application of CE concepts in Sri Lanka. A qualitative approach was used, informed by seven semi-structured interviews with experts who are directly engaged in handling construction waste. Six-step thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke was applied to identify the barriers, enablers, and perceptions of different stakeholders. The findings are such that poor regulation enforcement, high costs, and low technical capacity emerged as main barriers, while policy support, partnership, and innovation were identified as enablers. Material recovery practices were found to increase efficiency and achieve better sustainability results, but with an inconsistent approach. The study suggests that a stakeholder-driven approach, coupled with open policy and industry coordination, is key in adopting CE practices in Sri Lanka's construction sector