Report: Developing a material flow analysis (MFA) methodology to unlock circular construction

In order to increase the reuse of construction materials, we need to understand where materials arise, where they are needed, and how they move through the construction and demolition sector. Without this data, it is difficult to design effective and scalable systems that keep valuable resources in use for longer.

Our circularity experts worked with Aether to deliver a material flow analysis (MFA) methodology pilot for construction materials as part of the Zero Waste Scotland’s CirCoFin project.

The methodology pilot combines national datasets, literature review and stakeholder engagement to produce a transparent assessment of material flows across production, manufacture, use and end-of-life management.

The research developed and tested a robust methodology for undertaking MFA of construction materials. This was tested on four materials: steel, timber, flat glass, and mineral ceiling tiles. These were selected both for their prevalence in Scotland’s built environment and the fact that they represent a broad range of opportunities to increase material circularity.

The methodology pilot report concludes that, while there are still some substantial data limitations, it is possible to develop a practical, scalable MFA approach for Scotland’s built environment.

The research contributes to the evidence base underpinning the Circular Construction Hub Feasibility Study for Scotland and its recommendations for future hub development and investment planning.

A Horizon Europe-funded initiative, this project explores how circular construction hubs (CCHs) could support a more circular built environment in Scotland.

What is a circular construction hub (CCH)?
A CCH can be a physical site or digital platform – or potentially a combination of both – that enables a range of materials to be exchanged (whether for a fee or free of charge), to be used for what they were originally manufactured for.

The ambition of a CCH is to increase the recovery and reuse of building materials through collection, assessment, storage, refurbishment and redistribution, creating a platform that supports businesses in navigating rising costs and developing more resilient, more locally-focused supply chains.

The report addresses the need for consolidated, Scotland-specific information on the flows of construction materials and products through the built environment. It sits alongside a broader suite of CirCoFin research, including stakeholder engagement findings, construction and demolition data mapping, location appraisal work, and a feasibility study summary report that outlines the key findings and next steps for the project towards establishing a national network capable of increasing material reuse and supporting Scotland’s transition to a circular economy.

The CirCoFin project aligns with Scotland’s Built Environment Roadmap to Circularity, which Resource Futures supported with systems mapping to illustrate the primary factors influencing circular economy practices and adoption across key sectors.

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