Circular Construction Faces Cost Barriers Amid Weak Low-Carbon Concrete Demand
Low-carbon materials · AEC industry
Recent Finnish industry data and research show circular construction and component reuse struggle with severe cost premiums despite proven technical feasibility.
Recent industry developments and research in Finland highlight major financial hurdles for circular construction. Materials technology firm Betolar announced layoffs due to permanently weakened demand for low-carbon concrete, noting that cost still dictates procurement over sustainability. Studies from Tampere University and VTT reveal that selective dismantling can cost three times more than standard demolition, while recovered components can be thirteen times costlier than virgin materials.
Key takeaways
- Betolar reported layoffs after market demand for its Geoprime low-carbon concrete weakened permanently due to cost pressures.
- A Tampere University study concluded that dismantling conventional precast concrete structures for reuse remains unprofitable.
- VTT research found selective demolition can cost three times conventional demolition, with donor components up to thirteen times more expensive than virgin materials.
- Industry experts note that upcoming EU circularity regulations and industrialized supply chains may be necessary to bridge the cost gap.
Source：AEC Business Read the original ↗
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