Towards Building Circularity in Queensland

Policy Gaps in the Built Environment

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54337/plate2025-10446

Keywords:

Australia, Circular Economy, Policy Analysis, Disassembly, Deconstruction, Adaptive Reuse

Abstract

This study evaluates Queensland's policies supporting circular economy practices in the building and construction industry. Through systematic review, it reveals that while current initiatives have improved construction waste recovery rates, policies focus primarily on recycling rather than higher-order circular practices like deconstruction and material reuse. The research identifies opportunities for policy reform and incentives to advance Queensland's transition to a circular economy in the built environment. 

Author Biography

Yousef A. Y. Thaher, Queensland University of Technology, Australia

Yousef Thaher is a PhD researcher at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Australia, focusing on sustainability and circular economy in the built environment. His research explores gaps and opportunities to enhance circularity in construction, particularly in Australia. With a strong academic background, he critically analyzes legislative frameworks, resource recovery strategies, and industry practices to support a transition toward more sustainable construction models. His work contributes to shaping policy recommendations that promote deconstruction, adaptive reuse, and material recovery, aligning with global sustainability targets. Passionate about environmental impact and innovation, Yousef engages with policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

References

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Queensland Government. (2011). Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011. Retrieved November 27, 2024, from https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/act-2011-031

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Queensland Government. (2024a). Resource recovery industry development program. Retrieved November 27, 2024, from https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/industry/critical-industry-support/resource-recovery/industry-development-program

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Downloads

Published

24-06-2025

How to Cite

Thaher, Y. A. Y., Schork, T., Pushpamali, N., Cowled, C., & Crowther, P. (2025). Towards Building Circularity in Queensland: Policy Gaps in the Built Environment. Proceedings of the 6th Product Lifetimes and the Environment Conference (PLATE2025), (6). https://doi.org/10.54337/plate2025-10446

Issue

Section

Track 6: Policies for Longer Lifetimes – Extended Abstracts