Overcoming barriers to circular economy adoption in Ghana construction industry

Abstract

This study addresses the critical challenge of transitioning Ghana's construction industry from a linear economic model to a Circular Economy (CE) to mitigate its significant environmental footprint. The primary objective was to develop a strategic framework for overcoming the key barriers hindering CE adoption. Employing a qualitative research design, the study conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with ten key stakeholders across Ghana's construction value chain, including private contractors, engineers, architects, consultants, local and central government officials, and waste management experts. Thematic analysis, supported by NVivo software, revealed a significant paradox: while conceptual awareness of CE principles is high among professionals, a profound implementation gap persists. The findings identify a complex ecosystem of interconnected barriers that collectively sustain the linear status quo. Financial risks, characterized by high upfront costs and uncertain returns, are exacerbated by the absence of a structured market for secondary materials and weak client demand. These are compounded by significant technical barriers, most critically the lack of national standards for recycled materials, which creates professional liability concerns. Furthermore, regulatory inertia, fragmented institutional frameworks, and deeply embedded cultural conservatism create a self-reinforcing system that resists transformation. Despite these challenges, the research identifies a foundation of cautious willingness across the industry. Stakeholders recognize CE's dual value as both an environmental imperative and an economic strategy for addressing material scarcity and waste management crises. This willingness, however, remains conditional on the establishment of clear drivers: strong client demand (particularly through public procurement mandates), supportive regulatory frameworks with tangible incentives, and the development of technical standards that assure material performance and safety. The study concludes by proposing a multi-stakeholder strategic framework that prioritizes the development of national standards, targeted fiscal incentives, regulatory enforcement, and collaborative partnerships. The successful transition to a circular construction sector in Ghana depends on translating existing conceptual awareness into actionable policies and market mechanisms, representing not merely an environmental imperative but a comprehensive sustainable development opportunity.