Embedding Circularity in the Construction Supply Chain: A Systematic Review of Smart Procurement and Design practices

Abstract

The transition to a circular economy in construction requires rethinking traditional supply chain dynamics, particularly in procurement and design. While sustainability efforts have largely focused on waste management and material recovery, early-stage interventions—such as strategic procurement and circular design—remain underexplored. This systematic literature review, guided by the PRISMA 2020 methodology, synthesizes insights from 32 research articles to assess the role of smart procurement and design practices in embedding circularity across the construction supply chain. The review identifies two key thematic clusters: (i) Dynamics in the sustainable supply chain for smart procurement and stakeholder collaboration and (ii) circular design for resource optimization. Findings highlight critical barriers, including information asymmetry, fragmented decision-making, and short-term procurement approaches, which hinder the full integration of circular economy in the built environment. To address these gaps, the study proposes a conceptual framework to Embedding Circularity in the Construction Supply Chain, emphasizing early-stage interventions that align procurement and design decisions with long-term sustainability goals. Recommendations include policy incentives, technology innovation, and enhanced collaboration to strengthen circular economy adoption and reduce environmental impact in the built environment.