Why not reprocessed: identifying factors limiting the uptake of reprocessed structural timber
Built Environment Project and Asset Management
ISSN: 2044-124X
Article publication date: 18 April 2023
Issue publication date: 17 May 2023
Abstract
Purpose
Timber waste from construction is downcycled into non-structural products, incinerated for energy generation or disposed of in landfills. Existing literature highlights that the use of reprocessed timber for structural purposes is limited. Therefore, this study aims to focus on identifying factors limiting reprocessed structural timber (RST) uptake amongst construction professionals in Australia.
Design/methodology/approach
Current literature shows that the use of reprocessed materials (RMs) depends on user-specific personal factors and broader contextual factors. Therefore, data collection and analysis were based on the attitude-behaviour-context (ABC) theory, which affirms this relationship between personal and contextual factors in determining pro-environmental behaviours (PEBs). A qualitative research approach was adopted, considering limitations with industry expertise and the need for developing an in-depth understanding of limiting factors. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted amongst construction professionals experienced in using reprocessed materials, while the thematic analysis technique was used to analyse interview findings.
Findings
Personal factors that limit the uptake of RST include negative cost and quality perceptions, risk appetite, the tendency to maintain the status-quo, limited decision-making capability and lack of skills and expertise, while contextual factors include higher prices, poor and uncertain quality, limitations with information availability, under-developed supply and drawbacks in the regulatory environment.
Originality/value
The current study is amongst the first to explore the uptake of reprocessed timber for structural uses in Australia. The findings can be utilised to create a stronger demand for RST by directly addressing personal and contextual factors that constrain construction professionals from using RST.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to acknowledge the contribution of Remo Morelli, Samuel Prestia, Oliver Pride and Zahra Atai from the University of South Australia for data collection for this study. The authors also acknowledge the financial support from the Australian Government through an Australian Government Research Training Program International (RTPi) Scholarship for PhD studies and support from the University of South Australia.
Citation
Tennakoon, G.A., Rameezdeen, R. and Chileshe, N. (2023), "Why not reprocessed: identifying factors limiting the uptake of reprocessed structural timber", Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Vol. 13 No. 3, pp. 471-487. https://doi.org/10.1108/BEPAM-10-2022-0165
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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