Purpose This study provides a comprehensive overview of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) as a sustainable alternative for cement co-processing, highlighting its role in decarbonising the cement industry and advancing circular economy (CE) objectives. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines to synthesise existing knowledge. A total of 211 scholarly articles (1991–July 2025) were subjected to descriptive analysis. 48 records, including seven regulatory documents, were selected for detailed content analysis. Findings The descriptive analysis indicates that research output on RDF in cement manufacturing has fluctuated but is showing an upward trend, driven by regulatory pressure and growing industry interest. Studies are concentrated in developed nations, with regions such as Africa and Latin America being underrepresented. Content analysis reveals ongoing ambiguity between RDF and solid recovered fuel, as these terms are often used interchangeably in research and regulations. This review clarifies RDF's role within the CE framework and the waste management hierarchy, while identifying key gaps in standardisation, quality assurance, environmental assessment and policy development. Addressing these gaps is critical to advancing sustainable global adoption. Originality/value This study systematically maps the evolution and current landscape of RDF research in cement manufacturing, offering a clear research agenda. By identifying critical knowledge gaps and proposing future directions, it provides a valuable reference for academics, policymakers and industry practitioners. The findings aim to inform decision-making, support the integration of RDF into cement manufacturing and contribute to global sustainability and decarbonisation efforts.
PurposeAdaptive reuse is a key strategy in the transition towards a circular built environment, offering social, financial, cultural and environmental benefits. The abundance of vacant buildings found in our cities demonstrates that this strategy is not yet used to its maximum potential. A systematic overview and categorisation of the drivers and barriers influencing the adoption of adaptive reuse is necessary and it can contribute to better decision-making. Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review was conducted to identify the drivers and barriers of adaptive reuse. From the initial database of 13,495 publications, 45 were included in the final analysis. A thematic analysis revealed recurring concepts, which were classified into seven categories: regulatory, financial, environmental, cultural, social, building-related and stakeholders-related factors. FindingsThe most significant barriers to adaptive reuse are building codes, the building's physical limitations to adaptation and a lack of skilled workers. The most critical drivers are instead the desire for heritage conservation, the opportunity to revitalise the larger surrounding area, favourable legislations and regulations, and fundings and financial incentives. Despite increasing awareness of the environmental benefits of adaptive reuse, environmental factors are found to be less compelling than cultural and financial factors. Originality/valueThis article provides a systematic synthesis of the drivers and barriers of adaptive reuse and introduces the “stakeholders-related factors” category. This addition highlights how the complexity of adaptive reuse projects is amplified by the involvement of multiple actors with diverse values and priorities. Further research on stakeholder dynamics could offer valuable insights into how these interactions shape adaptive reuse outcomes.
Purpose In support of Facilities Management (FM) in the higher education sector, this study aims to outline an approach of using Building Information Modelling (BIM) in retrospect for existing buildings which are so old that their 2D drawings are substantially outdated and therefore fail to represent the current state of the built asset. A case study at Northumbria University illustrates a cost-effective retro-BIM methodology for developing BIM models of existing buildings, emphasizing lighting systems. By presenting an affordable alternative to the scan-to-BIM approach, the study lays the groundwork for further exploration of the potential of retrospective BIM to enhance FM efficiency in established structures.Design/methodology/approach The paper adopted a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative methods, such as interviews and document analysis (in this study, the latter), gather insights into facility management practices, whereas quantitative methods assess the effectiveness of retro-BIM. A case study approach is utilized, focusing on a specific building. Additionally, a review of the existing literature and industry standards informs the research design, thereby creating an interdisciplinary approach that draws on architecture, engineering, construction management and information technology.Findings The paper advocates applying BIM retrospectively to improve FM in the existing built environment, with a focus on higher education. A case study at Northumbria University, UK, demonstrates a cost-effective retro-BIM methodology, particularly for lighting systems. The study suggests broader adoption of retro-BIM due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness compared to scan-to-BIM technology, emphasizing its potential to enhance FM practices across sectors, particularly for commercial, office-setting like buildings which are not far different to those of in the higher education sector.Research limitations/implications While focused on retrospective BIM application in higher education, the study's reliance on a single case study and methodological considerations may limit its broader applicability. Nonetheless, the findings provide valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers, laying groundwork for future research directions and contributing to discussions on industry standards and sustainability goals.Practical implications The paper presents an account of retrospective BIM implications at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom using a bespoke retro-BIM methodology.Originality/value Focusing on "lighting", the paper demonstrates how BIM models can be developed cost-effectively (in contrast to the more costly scan-to-BIM approach) for existing built-environment assets. In doing so, the paper seeks to form a staging post for further enquiry into retrospective BIM.
Purpose The quest to mitigate the catastrophic effects of climate change has increased global initiatives to improve energy efficiency in the building sector, as buildings account for 38% of greenhouse emissions globally. From the systems theory, the study argues that to improve energy efficiency in buildings and satisfaction of users, an integrated regime of operational energy management practices (OEM), planned preventive maintenance (PPM) and indoor environment quality (IEQ) is inevitable. Accordingly, this study elucidates the extent to which extant literature has covered the connections of OEM, PPM and IEQ with the satisfaction of tenants in office buildings. Design/methodology/approach The study used the systematic literature review approach to select relevant literature for the study. Literature was selected from indexed scholarly databases including Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. A total of 93 studies was arrived at and used for the review after duplicates were removed, and age and relevance were applied as screening criteria. The studies used were limited to a period of 25 years (2000–2025). This notwithstanding, adequate and relevant materials were obtained for the review. Findings The review found a positive relationship between PPM and satisfaction of office building users; and positive relationship between IEQ and satisfaction of office building users. The holistic interaction of OEM, PPM and IEQ with satisfaction has however not been studied. Even though a direct relationship exists between energy efficiency and the rental values of office buildings, energy efficiency in these studies was measured using energy performance certificates and other environmental certifications, ignoring the OEM practices as elaborated by ISO 50001 and other scholars. The study also discovered scanty literature on the topic in developing countries particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where the emergence of glazed office construction results in higher cooling loads. Research limitations/implications The study is limited to the systematic review approach. Thus, no field data were collected to validate the findings in this study. The study forms part of broader research, with this phase focusing only on a synthesis of the current literature to identify current gaps. More practical recommendations and discussions would be made after the collection and analysis of the field data. Practical implications Practically, the review provides significant value for facility managers, policymakers and real estate developers by revealing how strategic maintenance planning can enhance IEQ and, ultimately, productivity and well-being. As buildings use approximately 40% of global energy, maximizing the performance of office buildings would make a significant contribution to global energy savings and greenhouse gas reductions. The integrative perspective presented in this review therefore offers both theoretical and applied contributions, establishing a foundation for more holistic building performance models and informing future empirical. Social implications This study highlights how structured preventive maintenance can facilitate improvements that can extend asset life cycles, improve operational costs and IEQ. Better indoor conditions are not only important for the health and well-being of occupants but transcends to the productivity outcomes of the workforce. With this in mind, the research has demonstrated potential in influencing the management of office spaces and outcomes from employees in the corporate real estate industry. Originality/value The study highlights the effects of OEM, PPM and IEQ, on occupant satisfaction. Thus, instead of referring to these themes separately, as other studies do, this review also highlights the integrative effect of OEM, PPM and IEQ and the satisfaction of users in office buildings. The review improves the literature by identifying the gaps that link human-centered building outcomes – a topic that has not been systematically studied, especially in the less-developed world and the emerging real estate markets.
PurposeThis study investigates the application of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in building condition assessment (BCA) and safety diagnostics, with the aim of informing future research and supporting practical implementation across the construction and operational lifecycle. Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive search of Scopus and Google Scholar identified thirty-three peer-reviewed empirical and conceptual studies on UAV-enabled building assessment and safety applications. Thematic synthesis was employed to identify key research directions, while scientometric mapping was conducted using VOSviewer. FindingsResearch on UAV applications in building diagnostics and safety has increased significantly since 2020, indicating a transition toward autonomous, data-driven monitoring and lifecycle-oriented risk management. Five core themes were identified: (1) hazard detection and pathology assessment, (2) building monitoring and condition assessment, (3) integration with artificial intelligence, Building Information Modelling, and Digital Twins, (4) safety and technical training and (5) regulatory and ethical considerations. Practical implicationsThe study provides practitioners, academics, and policymakers with insights to enhance building safety performance, optimize condition monitoring processes, support evidence-based decision-making and promote sustainable lifecycle management (LCM) practices. Originality/valueThis study is among the few to integrate scientometric analysis with a systematic literature review to examine UAV applications in building diagnostics and safety. It advances the theoretical understanding of intelligent safety and building monitoring ecosystems and identifies future research priorities in governance, ethical deployment and cross-industry knowledge transfer.
PurposeThe increasing urgency to embed environmental, social and governance (ESG) within the built environment is driven by escalating climate threats, regulatory demands and stakeholder expectations. However, the absence of a unified understanding and the fragmented nature of ESG applications pose significant challenges to effective integration. To address these inefficiencies, quantitatively mapping current and future trends in scientific literature through bibliometric analysis is crucial. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the knowledge structure of ESG research within the built environment. Design/methodology/approachA bibliometric analysis was conducted on 563 articles in the Web of Science database using the science mapping method, consisting of citation analysis, co-citation analysis and co-word analysis. FindingsThe citation analysis revealed three themes, the co-citation analysis identified four clusters, and the co-word analysis produced five clusters. Additionally, five key themes were identified regarding the knowledge structure of the ESG research within the built environment. Originality/valueThis study provides a comprehensive science mapping of ESG research within the built environment. By synthesising diverse streams of research, it offers a structured understanding of how ESG is conceptualised and operationalised across spatial, institutional and policy domains. The findings serve as a roadmap for advancing ESG through academic research, professional practice and policy design.
Purpose Contractors are undergoing a transformation to adopt circular economy (CE) principles. Performance assessment is crucial to this transformation; however, existing CE performance assessment (CEPA) systems demonstrate limited applicability to contractors, and a significant research gap remains concerning contractors' requirements for system-level integration. This study identifies the system requirements for assessing contractors' CE performance and proposes quantifiable strategies for measuring and promoting circularity at the firm level. Design/methodology/approach CEPA models are examined through a systematic literature review to develop a theoretical framework outlining methodological approaches, indicators, technologies, and barriers to applicability. Semi-structured interviews with 15 CE experts identify additional barriers in practice and system requirements, which are subsequently validated and prioritised through a survey of 32 ENR-listed Turkish contractors operating internationally. Findings Among 16 CEPA models reviewed, most target manufacturing contexts and remain conceptual, lacking empirical validation. Key barriers include the absence of construction-specific indicators aligned with ISO 59020:2024, data reliability and management challenges, and usability constraints. Identified system requirements comprise a customizable, user-friendly design, real-time data exchange and transparency. While dashboards are the preferred interface, interoperability with BIM and material passports is considered essential. Originality/value Rather than introducing another assessment tool, this study synthesises empirical evidence from international contractors to determine system requirements, exploring how data infrastructure, system design and digital tools should be coherently integrated to guide the development and organisational implementation of CEPA, in the quest to accelerate the adoption of digitally enabled circular practices at the firm level.
Purpose This study aims to investigate how multidimensional subjective norms within the theory of planned behavior (TPB) influence investor intention in green building projects in Vietnam. Addressing the oversimplification in prior TPB applications, subjective norms are decomposed into four empirically grounded dimensions: social demand, government support, readiness of project participants and certification organization support. This decomposition extends TPB theory by providing a context-sensitive framework that captures the complex institutional and stakeholder dynamics characteristic of emerging green building markets. Design/methodology/approach A structured questionnaire was developed based on systematic literature review and stakeholder consultations. Data were collected from 116 green building professionals with direct investment experience across Vietnam's three major regions (north, central and south) and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The analysis evaluated both measurement and structural models, examining construct reliability, validity and hypothesized relationships. Findings Social demand (ss = 0.279, p < 0.01) and readiness of project participants (ss = 0.377, p < 0.01) significantly predict investor intention. Government support and certification organization support do not directly influence intention but operate indirectly by enhancing social demand (GOV -> SOC: ss = 0.318, p < 0.01; CER -> SOC: ss = 0.382, p < 0.01) and project participant readiness (GOV -> PAR: ss = 0.504, p < 0.01; CER -> PAR: ss = 0.320, p < 0.01). The model explains 42.1% of variance in intention, demonstrating the value of disaggregating subjective norms. Originality/value This study advances TPB theory by reconceptualizing subjective norms as a multidimensional, context-sensitive construct that reflects the institutional complexity of green building investment ecosystems in emerging markets. Unlike previous TPB extensions that add constructs linearly, this framework disaggregates a core TPB component to reveal nuanced mechanisms of normative influence. The findings demonstrate that institutional actors (government and certifiers) shape investor behavior primarily through legitimation mechanisms rather than direct pressure, offering actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders.
PurposeThe purpose of this study is to experimentally investigate the structural performance of reinforced lightweight geopolymer concrete (LWGPC) beams incorporating hybrid basalt-steel fibers when exposed to elevated temperatures. The research examines the influence of fiber inclusion, reinforcement bar diameter and thermal exposure on load capacity, stiffness, ductility and failure modes under four-point bending. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used to assess microstructural changes, including fiber integrity and interfacial transition zone (ITZ) behavior. The study aims to advance understanding of LWGPC's fire resistance and mechanical resilience, supporting its application in sustainable and thermally robust structural systems.Design/methodology/approachSixteen reinforced LWGPC beams, with and without hybrid basalt-steel fibers (0.2% volume), were cast using fly ash, alkali-activated solutions and volcanic tuff aggregates. Beams varied in tensile reinforcement diameters (10, 12 and 14 mm) and were exposed to 25 degrees C, 300 degrees C, 450 degrees C and 600 degrees C. After heating, the specimens were tested under four-point bending to measure ultimate load, midspan deflection, stiffness, ductility and failure modes. SEM was conducted on selected samples to evaluate fiber condition and ITZ changes. Results were analyzed to assess the effects of fiber addition, bar size and temperature on structural performance.FindingsHybrid basalt-steel fibers significantly enhanced LWGPC beam performance, increasing compressive strength, ultimate load, stiffness and ductility by up to 45%, 11%, 31% and 51%, respectively, compared to fiber-free beams. Elevated temperatures reduced load capacity, with the maximum loss at 450 degrees C, but partial recovery occurred at 600 degrees C due to matrix densification. Smaller reinforcement diameters retained strength better under heat, while larger diameters improved stiffness and capacity at ambient conditions. SEM analysis confirmed fiber integrity and revealed temperature-induced widening of the ITZ. Overall, LWGPC with hybrid fibers demonstrated superior mechanical resilience and fire resistance, supporting its use in sustainable, high-performance structures.Originality/valueThis study provides one of the first comprehensive experimental evaluations of LWGPC beams reinforced with hybrid basalt-steel fibers under elevated temperatures. It uniquely combines structural performance testing with SEM microstructural analysis to link mechanical behavior to fiber integrity and ITZ changes. The use of local volcanic tuff aggregate and hybrid fibers offers a sustainable, thermally resilient alternative to conventional concrete. Findings contribute new insights into optimizing fiber reinforcement and bar sizing for enhanced fire resistance, durability and environmental performance, supporting broader adoption of LWGPC in sustainable infrastructure and fire-prone construction environments.
Purpose This study investigates the influence of lightweight scoria aggregates and heavyweight hematite aggregates on the mechanical and radiation-related properties of self-compacting concrete (SCC), with comparison to normal SCC and conventional concrete. Design/methodology/approach Four concrete mixtures were prepared: normal self-compacting concrete (SCC), lightweight self-compacting concrete (SCC-L), heavyweight self-compacting concrete (SCC-H) and normal concrete (NC). After 28 days of curing, specimens were tested using uniaxial compressive strength, Brazilian tensile strength, Schmidt hammer rebound, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and gamma-ray attenuation coefficient measurements. Regression models were developed to establish empirical relationships between mechanical and non-destructive parameters, and their validity was assessed using statistical indices. Findings Normal SCC exhibited the highest compressive strength, approximately 15% greater than NC, while SCC-H showed an 8% increase. In contrast, SCC-L displayed an 18% reduction in compressive strength. Tensile strength was highest for SCC-H, exceeding NC by about 5%, whereas SCC and NC showed comparable values. Schmidt hammer rebound numbers were approximately 10% higher in SCC and 9% higher in SCC-L than in SCC-H and NC. Ultrasonic pulse velocities followed trends consistent with compressive strength. Gamma-ray testing demonstrated that SCC-H had a 15% higher linear attenuation coefficient than NC, while SCC-L showed a 12% lower coefficient. Originality/value This study provides a unified experimental framework combining mechanical testing, non-destructive evaluation and gamma-ray attenuation analysis for both lightweight and heavyweight SCC. The proposed empirical relationships offer practical tools for estimating concrete performance within the tested range and support the application of SCC in lightweight structural and radiation-shielding applications.
Purpose This study examines how fa & ccedil;ade orientation influences in situ thermal transmission in historic solid wall buildings and evaluates the measured performance of natural insulation materials when applied to traditionally constructed fabric. The aim is to improve the understanding of how orientation and exposure affect retrofit outcomes in hard to treat heritage buildings, supporting more evidence informed retrofit decision making.Design/methodology/approach Two pre 1910 stone buildings located in coastal Cornwall were monitored using medium duration in situ U value measurements in accordance with ISO 9869 1. Baseline and post retrofit performance was assessed across multiple fa & ccedil;ade orientations using sheep wool, hemp wool, wood fibre and synthetic polyisocyanurate insulation. Measurements were undertaken over periods ranging from approximately 11-20 days per test, enabling diurnal and exposure related effects to be captured. Measured U values were subsequently used to inform dynamic thermal simulations to explore the sensitivity of energy performance predictions to orientation dependent inputs.Findings Measured U values varied substantially with fa & ccedil;ade orientation and insulation material, including differences of up to approximately 16% between opposing elevations under comparable construction conditions. Parallel measurements on the same fa & ccedil;ade also revealed notable local variability. These results demonstrate that short duration testing and uniform performance assumptions may obscure orientation-related behaviour in historic solid wall construction. Natural insulation materials exhibited thermal performance comparable to polyisocyanurate in several orientations when assessed under real world exposure conditions.Research limitations/implications The study is limited to two case study buildings within a single climatic region and to the specific wall constructions tested. The findings should therefore be interpreted as indicative rather than generalisable. Further work across a wider range of building typologies, orientations and climatic contexts is required to strengthen transferability.Practical implications The findings highlight the value of extended in situ measurement when assessing retrofit options for historic buildings and demonstrate that orientation specific performance can materially influence measured outcomes. This supports a more cautious and evidence led approach to retrofit design where material choice and exposure are considered together.Originality/value Whilst research into the influence of orientation on thermal performance has previously been undertaken, it is rarely quantified through medium duration in situ measurements across multiple insulation materials within the same historic buildings. This study contributes empirical evidence derived from extended real-world monitoring, enabling side by side comparison of natural and synthetic insulation performance under comparable exposure conditions.
Purpose-This work aims to improve the performance of cement-based materials for paving block applications by evaluating the influence of banana fibers (Ba-F) on the mechanical and physical properties of cement paste, addressing the demand for sustainable, low-cost alternatives to synthetic fibers. Design/methodology/approach-Five cement paste mixes containing 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2% Ba-F by volume were prepared and tested over a 90-day curing period. Physical properties (density, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), total water absorption, sorptivity) and mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strength) were evaluated according to ASTM standards. Capillary-diffusive and hyperbolic models were applied to predict moisture transport and compressive strength development. Findings-A 0.5% Ba-F addition improved compressive and flexural strengths by 3.6 and 8.6%, respectively, compared to the control, with minimal impact on density. Higher Ba-F dosages (>0.5%) reduced strength and UPV while increasing water absorption and sorptivity. Strong correlations (R-2 >= 0.9) were observed between compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity and flexural strength. However, negative correlation was noticed between compressive strength and water absorption. Originality/value-This study provides paste-scale evidence on banana-fiber reinforcement by combining (1) UPV-based nondestructive assessment, (2) absorption/sorptivity characterization interpreted through a capillary-diffusive model (yielding transport parameters) and (3) strength development captured by a hyperbolic model, enabling identification of an optimum fiber dosage for paving-block-oriented applications.
PurposeThe construction sector is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, and with the rapid expansion of building projects globally, particularly in emerging economies, it is imperative to adopt advanced greenhouse gas control strategies. This review offers an in-depth analysis of existing strategies and technologies, highlighting innovative approaches such as intelligent grid energy management systems (EMS) for optimizing emissions control. Design/methodology/approachThis study examines methodologies for quantifying and managing greenhouse gas emissions across the full lifecycle of buildings, emphasizing the substantial environmental footprint of the construction sector, which constitutes approximately 37% of global energy-related carbon emissions. Given the anticipated doubling of the global building footprint by 2060, this research systematically investigates the characteristics of carbon emissions and corresponding mitigation strategies within a comprehensive life cycle framework. It comprehensively reviews advancements in sustainable building practices worldwide, underscoring the critical role of life cycle management across diverse regions including Europe, North America, the United Kingdom, China and emerging markets. FindingsThis study presents methodological approaches for conducting life cycle assessments (LCA) tailored to individual buildings, encompassing Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, with empirical findings supported by case studies and quantitative data. Furthermore, it elaborates on carbon management strategies across different phases of the building lifecycle – including demand estimation, options appraisal, design, construction and decommissioning – with particular emphasis on controlling both embedded and operational carbon emissions. Originality/valueThis research underscores the deployment of intelligent grid EMS as a forward-looking strategy for the monitoring and optimization of carbon emissions. The study concludes with a synthesis of its primary findings, a delineation of prospective research trajectories, and policy suggestions. Additionally, it highlights the critical role of international collaboration and technological innovation in facilitating sustainable development within the construction sector.
PurposeEnsuring energy affordability across commercial buildings is challenging, particularly in Africa, where an unstable electricity supply exacerbates the issue. This study examines tenants' perceptions and the impact of fairness in shared energy billing systems within Ghanaian shopping malls.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a cross-sectional quantitative design. Structured survey questionnaires were used, grounded in the Expectancy Theory. Data were collected from 211 retail tenants in the major malls of Accra and Kumasi. The analytical approach employs Exploratory Factor Analysis and One-Way ANOVA.FindingsThe study found that tenants are more likely to engage in energy-saving behaviours if they perceive the shared energy expense system as fair, transparent and responsive. A dominant latent factor accounted for 66.6% of the variance, reflecting its combined influence on perceptions of billing fairness, trust in management, perceived behavioural control and motivation. Tenants showed varying degrees of satisfaction with shared energy cost plans, depending on tenancy length (F = 3.823, p = 0.031), shop size (F = 6.431, p = 0.003) and business sector (F = 5.223, p = 0.007).Practical implicationsIn practice, there is a need to provide clear, itemised monthly reports detailing allocations of energy costs. Quarterly forums or consultation meetings should be established by leasing and operations management units to discuss issues and stay informed about billing changes. Theoretically, integrating fairness and trust constructs to explain motivational dynamics in shared energy billing in commercial systems improves Vroom's Expectancy Theory.Originality/valueThe study positions energy equity as both a behavioural and a structural challenge in shopping malls, primarily in low- and middle-income countries.
PurposeThere is a growing need for private sector participation (PSP) in the provision of water infrastructure to boost availability and efficiency, especially in developing economies. This study investigates users' preference for PSP in water infrastructure provision in Lagos, Nigeria. Design/methodology/approachUsing a multistage sampling, the study selected 57, 172 and 296 buildings in Shomolu, Surulere and Ikeja local government areas, respectively, in Lagos. Closed-ended questionnaires were administered to one adult resident in each building. From a total of 525 questionnaires, only 450 (85.71%) were returned and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. FindingsThe analysis revealed that users had a higher level of awareness of PSP in water infrastructure provision, though preference for PSP was slightly lower. Three key determinants of PSP acceptance were identified: effective management/policy framework, service competitiveness/effectiveness and price increase. While users recognize the advantages of improved service delivery, the positive attitudes are offset by concerns of increased costs. Anticipated price increases and reduced affordability diminish perceived behavioural control and present compatibility challenges. Regression analysis confirms that while governance and efficiency drive acceptance, affordability is a factor limiting support. Thus, users' preferences rely not solely on efficiency, but on equitable pricing, regulatory transparency and socioeconomic factors. Practical implicationsEvaluating end-users’ perspectives could encourage PSP in water infrastructure provision, thereby limiting environmental hazards, guaranteeing quality control and reducing individual expenses through economies of scale. Originality/valueQuality water supply infrastructure significantly influences housing quality and property values. However, empirical research on the determinants of user preferences for PSP in developing countries remains scarce.
Purpose This study develops a socio-technical maturity process for digital twin implementation in National Health Service healthcare estates, where operational costs exceed 13.6 pound billion annually and current frameworks fail to address human technical integration. Design/methodology/approach Sequential mixed methods within Design Science Research combine surveys (n = 30), interviews (n = 16), and expert evaluation (n = 8). Statistical and thematic analyses enabled process and matrix development and validation. Findings The four-phase process (Awareness, Adoption, Adaptation, Optimisation) with Technology Transition Matrix addresses capability gaps wherein organisational dimensions demonstrate the largest deficits (Delta M = 1.73, d = 1.73) exceeding infrastructure gaps (Delta M = 1.50). Systematic analysis identified 70 implementation challenges with 84% requiring coordinated socio-technical interventions. Originality/value This research advances socio-technical systems theory, demonstrating that digital twin implementation requires dynamic capability technology coupling rather than sequential deployment. The process operationalises socio-technical progression through phase-specific requirements, whilst the matrix provides tactical guidance through seven stages with phase stage alignment demonstrating systematic relationships (chi(2)(9) = 47.23, p < 0.001, V = 0.52). Both address gaps in existing maturity models through explicit technical organisational integration validated across 54 participants.
PurposeThis study investigates how daylight, spatial geometry and syntactic structure collectively shape the experiential and symbolic logic of privacy, openness and transition in the historical Mansurieh School-Mosque complex. The aim is to reveal how architectural form encodes cognitive and spiritual experiences through quantifiable luminous-spatial relations.Design/methodology/approachA mixed analytical framework integrates field-based daylight measurements (illuminance, daylight factor and uniformity) with spatial-syntactic parameters (Depth, Integration, Connectivity and Isovist area). Statistical tests, including correlation analysis and regression modeling in SPSS, were employed to interpret relationships between luminous and spatial variables. Visualizations and Figures were used to support the statistical-spatial interpretation.FindingsResults indicate that syntax metrics explain over 99% of the variance in average daylight levels, confirming that luminous behavior is structurally embedded in spatial configuration. Hojra cells exhibit minimal daylight and high spatial depth, reflecting architectural seclusion; Madras halls mediate between privacy and collectivity with balanced illumination, while the Mosque and Courtyard act as luminous, integrated cores. These relationships quantify how light and space co-produce spiritual and social meaning.Originality/valueThe research introduces an integrative statistical-spatial framework that bridges environmental performance and spatial syntax to interpret historical architecture. It offers a measurable approach for linking phenomenological experience, daylight and syntactic order.
PurposeThis study investigates the thermo-mechanical response of heritage masonry elements under environmental fluctuations, focusing on the Monastery of Batalha, Portugal. The aim is to move from descriptive monitoring to predictive modelling of temperature-driven displacements. By capturing the delayed thermal response of limestone due to thermal inertia, the research supports the development of passive alert systems that can forecast structural behaviour in advance. The ultimate purpose is to enhance preventive conservation strategies and improve resilience of heritage structures in the face of increasingly severe climate-induced environmental cycles. Design/methodology/approachTwo fibre Bragg grating sensor systems were installed in the cloister of the Monastery of Batalha to continuously monitor displacement and temperature over two years, generating more than 900,000 data points. The methodology included (1) initial linear regression analyses, (2) correction to isolate temperature-independent displacement, (3) evaluation of time lags to capture thermal inertia effects and (4) development of predictive regression models trained on lag-adjusted data. Models were validated using training/testing data splits and evaluated with R2 statistics for predictive accuracy across multiple sensors and monitoring weeks. FindingsRaw linear regressions showed moderate correlations (R2 up to 0.51). Introducing optimal weekly sensor-specific lags revealed significant improvements, reflecting variable thermal inertia effects. The predictive models achieved high accuracy, with R2 values above 0.93 for crack monitoring (FBG_1) and 0.75–0.95 for joint monitoring (FBG_2). These models successfully reconstructed missing displacement data and demonstrated the capability to predict responses under projected temperature cycles, enabling earlier detection of critical displacements relevant for structural health assessment and conservation decision-making. Originality/valueThe study pioneers the integration of fibre optic sensing with lag-based predictive modelling for heritage masonry. Unlike conventional monitoring, which is reactive, the proposed approach forecasts displacement behaviour by accounting for thermal inertia and environmental variability. The methodology transforms high-resolution monitoring data into a predictive tool, offering a scalable framework for heritage conservation worldwide. Its originality lies in enabling passive, data-driven alert systems that anticipate structural responses to climate-driven thermal cycles, directly supporting long-term resilience of monuments exposed to environmental change.
PurposeThis study aimed to develop an implementation framework for remanufacturing indirect building components based on the key factors and job competencies of remanufacturing. The key factors constitute the challenges and opportunities that must be addressed, while the job competencies represent skills, characteristics, and behaviors required to execute tasks successfully.Design/methodology/approachThis study proceeded in four stages. First, literature labeling identified the potential remanufacturing factors. Second, the Delphi method screened and validated these factors, producing a prioritized set of key factors, and those that required specific job competencies were determined. Third, these results were consolidated to develop a remanufacturing implementation framework for indirect building components. Fourth, case studies were done to evaluate the framework. The approach yielded a validated factor list, a competency model of hard and soft skills, and empirical evidence of the framework's feasibility and practical utility.FindingsThe findings from the case studies showed that the implementation framework provides valuable guidance for companies. Its inclusive design accommodates organizations of varying sizes, enabling both large and small-to-medium companies to develop effective operating models. The concept of job competencies offers a valuable reference for corporate talent allocation while allowing for application-specific adjustments. The managers of the case companies praised the framework for its user-friendly interface, clear structural design, and insightful presentation. The framework's combination of graphics, text, and directional arrows enhances concept comprehension, demonstrating accessibility and practicality for both specialists and general users.Originality/valueThis study has systematically identified 13 key factors for remanufacturing execution. In order to overcome complex technical aspects of remanufacturing, the concept of job competencies has been introduced. The combination of these two elements has created a novel and comprehensive remanufacturing implementation framework for indirect building components. The framework provides the foundation for achieving the sustainability goals of a built environment, transforming sustainability from a vision into actionable norms.
