Circular economy strategies in modern timber construction as a potential response to climate change

This paper aims to present recent circular economy (CE) cases used for modern methods of timber construction (MMTC) and examine the CE strategies in this context. The research problem of CE strategies in timber construction is explored, emphasizing its importance in addressing global climate change challenges. Based on a practical perspective, a two-phase research method was used. First, some key reports from the MMTC grey literature are selected based on an extensive internet search by entering relevant keywords related to the CE and timber or wood. Second, a systematic search within the Scopus database was conducted to identify the most relevant publications focusing on CE applications and case studies in the MMTC context. The review of the selected literature shows that the most frequently repeated strategies are those related to the recycling and reusing of CE-related strategies for timber construction. Key CE design principles and their related strategies in MMTC were identified and explained. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that using timber as a reusable and recyclable material for offsite construction is one of the most efficient ways in which to apply CE to creating dedicated benefits and is a key aspect of MMTC. An in-depth examination of CE strategies in MMTC is the key contribution of this review paper. Scholars are assisted in identifying knowledge gaps by the findings of this paper since the paper outlines the key strategies and challenges of MMTC. The paper also provides unique practical information, familiarizing practitioners with the required strategies for enhancing the circularity of buildings made of timber during the design and construction phases.