Reuse or used up? Upscaling material and component reuse in the Swedish construction sector

Paper in proceeding, 2025

Material and component reuse is seen as vital for circularity in construction; but practical adoption remains relatively slow in Sweden. This paper examines how such reuse can catalyse a transition from linear to circular construction. Drawing on sociotechnical concepts in the sustainability transitions theory (multi-level perspective; technological innovation systems; and strategic niche management); it reviews national research on reuse in Sweden. The findings reveal institutional and cultural lock-ins; weak policy incentives; and inadequate market infrastructure; all contributing to stagnation. A cohesive framework is proposed to address these barriers through multi-actor coalitions (e.g., policy bodies; major construction firms; demolition contractors; and environmental NGOs); demonstration projects; digital platforms; regulatory reforms; and strategic public procurement. The study expands the understanding of construction sector’s circular transformation and offers guidance on embedding reuse to improve resource efficiency while maintaining performance.