Applying EU Level(s) framework indicators to improve circularity: A case study

Abstract

The construction industry is the main consumer of raw materials and simultaneously responsible for 36% of solid waste in the EU, wherefore the implementation of a circular economy in the industry is urgently needed. The European Commission developed the Level(s) framework to help measure the environmental impact and improve the circularity of buildings. Yet applying the framework's indicators with the provided templates is a challenging task due to the comprehensive nature and size of EU documents and the lack of clarity on how to use the templates. This paper applies Indicators 2.1 (Bill of quantities, materials, and lifespans) and 2.2 (Construction and demolition waste and materials) to a case study to provide a better understanding of using them in practice. The findings will help actors throughout the whole value chain to implement required information into their building models for assessing and improving circularity in their buildings.