The built environment sector faces the challenge of becoming more sustainable. While the building and construction sector accounts for a sizeable portion of global carbon emissions, it is also well placed to lead the drive towards a circular economy. Minimising waste, keeping products and materials in use for longer, re-using materials and regenerating and retrofitting existing buildings will clearly bring environmental benefits. The adoption of circular economy principles will be important in tackling the sector’s environmental footprint and creating better places for people to work.

The research by BCO and Arup seeks to:

• Consolidate and expand on some of the key challenges in delivering circular economy principles in the office sector with a focus on the fit out of offices.
• Provide recommendations and solutions for stakeholders along the value chain operating within the office sector with a focus on fit out, to support the shift to more sustainable and circular approaches.
• Raise general awareness of circularity in office fit outs within the industry and showcasing existing guidance