Closing the Loop: A Systematic Review and Future Directions for Resource Recovery in the Construction Industry

The construction industry significantly contributes to environmental degradation through intensive resource consumption and the generation of construction and demolition waste (C&DW). As sustainability and circular economy principles gain momentum, resource recovery has emerged as a vital strategy for minimising waste and promoting material reuse. However, limited research has focused specifically on resource recovery within sustainable construction literature. To address this gap, this study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) using 33 peer-reviewed articles sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases. Adopting a qualitative content analysis guided by predetermined themes, the study synthesises current knowledge on resource recovery in construction. Findings reveal that extant resource recovery research spanned five key thematic areas: sustainable circular urbanism; construction and demolition waste management; digital technologies and modelling in resource recovery; environmental impact and assessment; and policies, economics and governance. Furthermore, the study identifies the driving factors and challenges associated with resource recovery practices, as well as the current practices and critical success factors that influence effective resource recovery in the construction industry. Beyond identifying research gaps relating to social acceptance, real-time monitoring, and context-specific strategies for developing countries, the study emphasises the need for integrated approaches that combine policy support, technological innovation, and stakeholder collaboration in fostering effective resource recovery practice. The study’s findings offer valuable insights for academia, industry, and policymakers aiming to advance sustainable construction through the enablement of effective resource recovery practices.