What

This master's thesis explores the material flows and circular possibilities for construction wood in the Norwegian building and construction industry. The goal is to rethink how construction wood is handled, so that it can be reused and minimize waste on the construction site. By focusing on material flows, I work to discover solutions for circular systems where we can safeguard and expand the woods’ lifespan and actors within the value chain.

Why

Significant amounts of resources are wasted in the building and construction sector today, contributing to environmental degradation and accounting for approximately 40% of total greenhouse gas emissions globally. The need for a paradigm shift from the traditional linear economic model to a circular economy is apparent. Although the market for such change is still young, there is considerable enthusiasm for implementing circular practices both at the macro level in policy agendas and at the micro level on construction sites.

How

By observing current practices on construction sites and engaging with relevant stakeholders using systems-oriented design, we can facilitate collaboration and openness possibilities and challenges for reuse of wood within a circular system. Because of the complex nature of the waste management problem, systems-oriented design methodology holds great potential. This flexible approach allows for innovation and adaptation, encouraging the industry to develop solutions that can be adapted to different contexts and needs over time.