Abstract
The construction sector is notably resource-inefficient and contributes significantly to resource depletion. One promising strategy to combat this is to implement Design for Disassembly. Design for Disassembly is a design approach created in response to diminishing material and energy resources and the increasing volume of waste. It facilitates the easy dismantling of buildings so that materials and components can be reused, repurposed, or recycled, thereby minimizing waste and reducing the environmental impact of construction activities. Despite the long-standing awareness of Design for Disassembly principles, their implementation has been slow. This article explores DfD in the Norwegian construction sector in the context of the Multiple Level Perspective transition theory framework. Although transition theory has been widely applied to study systemic changes across different industries, such as energy, mobility, food, and carbon capture and storage, its application for the construction industry has been limited. This perspective therefore represents a contribution to current research and also has practical implication to the implementation of Design for Disassembly. This study is part of the SirkBygg research project, led by the construction and development company Skanska. Data was collected through interviews with key stakeholders and a literature review. The analysis focuses on the research question: What key factors enable Design for Disassembly to transition from a niche innovation to a widely adopted industry standard? Findings indicate that the most important factors are knowledge development and pilot projects to learn from, as well as supportive business models. This should be followed by standardization and risk reduction measures, targeted support and incentives, clear and concise regulations, and a change of attitude in the market. The transition will require a coordinated approach, balancing policy enforcement, economic drivers, and industry innovation to mainstream Design for Disassembly as a standard practice.