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Towards Sustainable Construction: Systematic Review of Lean and Circular Economy Integration

Author

Listed:
  • Abderrazzak El Hafiane

    (Laboratory of Industrial Techniques, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30050, Morocco)

  • Abdelali En-nadi

    (Laboratory of Industrial Techniques, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30050, Morocco)

  • Mohamed Ramadany

    (Laboratory of Industrial Techniques, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30050, Morocco)

Abstract

The construction sector significantly contributes to global environmental degradation through intensive resource extraction, high energy consumption, and substantial waste generation. Addressing this unsustainable trajectory requires integrated approaches that simultaneously improve operational efficiency and material circularity. Lean Construction (LC) and Circular Economy (CE) offer complementary frameworks for enhancing process performance and reducing environmental impacts. However, their combined implementation remains underdeveloped and fragmented. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) of 18 peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2025, selected using PRISMA 2020 guidelines and sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases. A mixed-method approach combines bibliometric mapping and qualitative content analysis to investigate how LC and CE are jointly operationalized in construction contexts. The findings reveal that LC improves cost, time, and workflow reliability, while CE enables reuse, modularity, and lifecycle extension. Integration is further supported by digital tools—such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), and digital twins—which enhance traceability and flow optimization. Nonetheless, persistent barriers—including supply chain fragmentation, lack of standards, and regulatory gaps—continue to constrain widespread adoption. This review identifies six strategic enablers for LC-CE integration: crossdisciplinary competencies, collaborative governance, interoperable digital systems, standardized indicators, incentive-based regulation, and pilot demonstrator projects. By consolidating fragmented evidence, the study provides a structured research agenda and practical insights to guide the transition toward more circular, efficient, and sustainable construction practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Abderrazzak El Hafiane & Abdelali En-nadi & Mohamed Ramadany, 2025. "Towards Sustainable Construction: Systematic Review of Lean and Circular Economy Integration," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-42, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:6735-:d:1708949
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Soo Huey Teh & Thomas Wiedmann & Stephen Moore, 2018. "Mixed-unit hybrid life cycle assessment applied to the recycling of construction materials," Journal of Economic Structures, Springer;Pan-Pacific Association of Input-Output Studies (PAPAIOS), vol. 7(1), pages 1-25, December.
    2. Shanggang Hei & Hong Zhang & Shen Luo & Ruizhe Zhang & Chao Zhou & Meng Cong & Hongyu Ye, 2024. "Implementing BIM and Lean Construction Methods for the Improved Performance of a Construction Project at the Disassembly and Reuse Stage: A Case Study in Dezhou, China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(2), pages 1-25, January.
    3. Vivek Kumar Singh & Prashasti Singh & Mousumi Karmakar & Jacqueline Leta & Philipp Mayr, 2021. "The journal coverage of Web of Science, Scopus and Dimensions: A comparative analysis," Scientometrics, Springer;Akadémiai Kiadó, vol. 126(6), pages 5113-5142, June.
    4. Tasseda Boukherroub & Audrey Nganmi Tchakoutio & Nathalie Drapeau, 2024. "Using Lean in Deconstruction Projects for Maximising the Reuse of Materials: A Canadian Case Study," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(5), pages 1-20, February.
    5. Yunxin Chen & Dong Qiu & Xiaomin Chen, 2024. "Integrating Lean Construction with Sustainable Construction: Drivers, Dilemmas and Countermeasures," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(21), pages 1-23, October.
    6. Kirchherr, Julian & Reike, Denise & Hekkert, Marko, 2017. "Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 127(C), pages 221-232.
    7. Cristina Ciliberto & Katarzyna Szopik‐Depczyńska & Małgorzata Tarczyńska‐Łuniewska & Alessandro Ruggieri & Giuseppe Ioppolo, 2021. "Enabling the Circular Economy transition: a sustainable lean manufacturing recipe for Industry 4.0," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 30(7), pages 3255-3272, November.
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    Cited by:

    1. Muhammad Ehtsham & Giuliana Parisi & Flavia Pedone & Federico Rossi & Marta Zincani & Eleonora Congiu & Chiara Marchionni, 2025. "AI-Powered Advanced Technologies for a Sustainable Built Environment: A Systematic Review on Emerging Challenges," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(17), pages 1-45, September.
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