Dismantling linear lock-ins in the Australian AEC industry: A pathway to a circular economy

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry has struggled in its efforts to transition to a circular economy (CE) due to lock-ins, where the industry remains entrenched in practices that resist this much-needed transition. The solutions implemented so far have been unsuccessful. This failure can largely be attributed to the prevailing paradigm, which assumes that by sequentially removing barriers transition will naturally follow. However, this assessment overlooks the “lock-in” effect of practices within the industry's linear model. A comprehensive, holistic “whole of industry” approach is essential to uncover these lock-ins. In this context, O'Brien's “three transformational spheres framework” is introduced to examine how Australia's AEC sector is deterred from transitioning to a CE by three groups of lock-ins, and provide viable recommendation to tackle them. Fifteen industry experts were interviewed, covering the three dimensions of the framework. The findings specify three levels of intervention that must be addressed in the industry and recommend an order for tackling them: first, political systems and structures; second, practical behavioral and technical responses; and finally, personal beliefs and values. This article contributes significantly to the field by outlining a comprehensive array of strategies for industry transition. Implementing these strategies in the discussed order has the potential to catalyze the long-awaited transformation of the industry. This advances the theoretical framework concerning the adoption of a CE within the AEC sector and provides a reliable reference for policymakers, practitioners, and advocates who are orchestrating this transformative journey based on circular principles.