The study focuses on the application of circular economy principles to improve the construction industry’s sustainability. 

Specifically, the study outlines the 10R principles which are: refuse, rethink, reduce, reuse, repair (short loops), refurbish, remanufacture, repurpose (medium loops), recycle and recovery (long loops). Moreover, the thesis discusses modular construction as the literature review found a ‘gap’ within the current academia. Therefore, an in-depth study has been conducted using qualitative research methods in the form of primary and secondary data to analyse the research problem and draw conclusions. 

The aim of this project acts as a basis for all the works to ensure the initial concept remains at the forefront during the study. Thus, the aim is: ‘To explore the effectiveness of circular economy principles, specifically, the 10R principles within modular construction’. To accomplish this aim, the following objectives must be achieved: 

• Objective 1: To critically review CE and 10R principles in its application in construction.
• Objective 2: To critically review suitability of implementing CE within MC.
• Objective 3: To analyse challenges in implementing 10R principles in MC in Australia.
• Objective 4: To propose strategies in implementing10R principles with MC in Australia.

Additionally, the ethics approval was completed in between Autumn and Spring 2024 and utilised the umbrella project H15687. Thus, the ethics approval was granted on the 24th July 2024 and can be referred to by H16187. Post approval, 18 professionals were contacted to participate in expert interviews, 6 were completed as the others declined the invitation. 

The study also conducted a document review on Prefab Aus and National Precast. These 2 methods will be used in an attempt to minimize the ‘gap’ in literature and add valuable data and knowledge to the construction industry.