Unveiling systemic barriers to circular economy in construction for sustainability: a structural-causal network perspective

Purpose This study aims to investigate the interdependencies among key barriers to circular economy (CE) adoption in the construction sector and develop a strategic pathway to overcome these barriers for achieving sustainability. Design/methodology/approach The research combined DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) and Social Network Analysis (SNA) to examine the relationships between eight key barrier groups hindering CE implementation in construction. Expert assessments were used to validate the model’s centrality measures. Findings The analysis revealed a highly interconnected CE barrier system comprising two clusters: technical-external and organizational-cultural barriers. Regulatory and policy, knowledge and skill, and economic and financial barriers emerged as the most significant obstacles. Technology barriers functioned as key bridging nodes between clusters. Based on these findings, the study proposes a phased pathway prioritizing regulatory reform, capacity building, and financial innovation. Originality/value This study provides new insights by applying a dual approach to analyze the complex interdependencies between eight groups of CE barriers in construction. The findings provide practical guidance for policy makers, educational institutions, and industry leaders to coordinate interventions and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable construction sector in line with CE principles.