Circular economy-driven bio-digital building adaptation: integrating biodegradable materials with AI-enabled lifecycle tracking

Purpose This study examines how circular economy principles in the built environment can be advanced by integrating biodegradable construction materials with digital lifecycle intelligence. It addresses the persistent challenges of embodied carbon reduction, waste minimisation and material recovery in building adaptation and retrofitting, aiming to develop and validate a bio-digital framework that enables regenerative material cycles. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory mixed-method research design was adopted, combining a systematic literature review with the development of a circular economy-driven bio-digital adaptation framework. Two illustrative case scenarios modular partition systems using mycelium composites and ceiling insulation retrofits using hempcrete were analysed using life cycle assessment material circularity indicators, and AI-supported decision simulations. Framework validation was undertaken through a Delphi-lite expert workshop involving academic and industry stakeholders, providing quantitative ratings and qualitative feedback on feasibility, scalability and innovation. Findings The results indicate that bio-digital systems can achieve substantial embodied carbon reductions (up to 58%) and high circularity performance (Material Circularity Indicator >0.8) compared with conventional alternatives. The scenarios demonstrate that biodegradable materials, when supported by digital tracking, material passports, and AI-enabled decision support, can extend service life, enable controlled biodegradation, and support reuse pathways. Expert feedback confirmed the framework's innovation and practical relevance, while identifying durability, certification, and cost as key adoption challenges. Originality/value This study presents the first integrated bio-digital adaptation framework that explicitly links biodegradable materials with digital lifecycle intelligence. By treating biomaterials as actively managed resources rather than passive substitutions, the framework offers a novel pathway for embedding circular economy principles into adaptive reuse and sustainable retrofitting.