In the quest for sustainable construction, steel—a backbone of modern infrastructure—faces a critical challenge: its environmental footprint. A recent study published in *JRST: Jurnal Riset Sains dan Teknologi* (Journal of Science and Technology Research) sheds light on how circular economy principles could revolutionize the steel construction industry, offering a path to reduced emissions and resource efficiency. Led by Dian Laras Wati of Universitas Tarumanagara, the research delves into the potential of reusing steel structures and industrial by-products to create a more sustainable future.
The study, which reviewed 317 Scopus-indexed articles, highlights the fragmented nature of current research on steel structure reuse and sustainability. Despite progress, practical barriers—such as technical and economic constraints—hinder widespread adoption of circular economy practices. “Design for Deconstruction (DfD) practices can reduce emissions by up to 70% compared to new structures,” explains Wati, “but these methods are not yet mainstream due to challenges in implementation.”
One of the most promising findings is the potential of industrial by-products like steel slag and blast furnace gas. These materials, often discarded, could play a pivotal role in energy savings and CO₂ reduction. However, their use remains limited, presenting an opportunity for innovation and policy intervention.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are significant. As industries strive to meet sustainability targets, the adoption of circular economy principles in steel construction could lead to cost savings, reduced waste, and a smaller carbon footprint. “The key lies in innovative joint design and technological integration,” Wati notes. “Policy incentives could accelerate this transition, making circular economy practices more viable for businesses.”
The research underscores the need for collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers to overcome these challenges. By fostering innovation and creating supportive policies, the steel construction sector can move toward a more sustainable and circular future. As Wati concludes, “The time to act is now. The potential benefits are too great to ignore.”
This study not only highlights the current gaps in sustainable steel construction but also points to a future where circular economy principles could reshape the industry. For professionals in the energy and construction sectors, the message is clear: embracing these practices could lead to significant environmental and economic gains.