Enabling circular economy in facility management through digital twins: a case study from Norway

Purpose Circular economy (CE) principles can enhance the sustainability and regenerative potential of built environments through facility management (FM). This study aims to explore how FM can support the implementation of CE during the use phase of a building, with a focus on applying digital twin technologies. Design/methodology/approach The study is based on case study X in Trondheim, Norway. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with various project participants, including project owners, property managers, building operations managers, architects, contractors and consultants. Findings In case study X, circular FM is linked to building design strategies that improve adaptability, extend service life and promote collaboration among stakeholders. The implementation of a digital twin is crucial for efficient data management, which supports both FM services and CE principles, ultimately enhancing asset value. Originality/value The study provides a multi-stakeholder perspective on circular FM, reflecting on the possibility to achieve holistic value. It also contributes to advance the understanding of the link between CE, FM and data-based digital solutions, specifically digital twins.