Business Strategical Proposals for Implementing Reused Windows in Industrial Construction

Abstract

It is known that the construction sector accounts for a sizeable share of the total waste generated annually. With various climate targets pushing towards sustainable development, this sector needs to become more circular. Reusing materials and products is seen as having a great potential in reducing the amount of waste and negative environmental impacts the sector has today, although this is often easier said than done. Windows are considered to be one of the more complex components to reuse. In addition, the conditions for implementing reused windows differ depending on the type of construction process and building. The aim of this master thesis was to identify the conditions of using reused windows into newly produced, prefabricated multi-family dwellings, in order to present business strategy proposals for companies within this area of business. A literature review was conducted to understand what barriers currently exist and to identify main stakeholders that are to be involved in the development. The theoretical framework was used as a basis for the interview study which consisted of 10 interviews with stakeholders from different parts of the construction value chain. The interviews were categorised to answer the question of which stakeholder should drive the change, what business changes are required in the studied company, conditions on how windows can be reused and how it can be applied in prefabrication. The results showed that there is no single actor taking sole responsibility, as the whole sector must embrace this reform. However, the actor that will have a major influence towards the implementation of reused windows in prefabricated production are the client. The results also showed that large parts of the buildings that will be dismantled in the near future have windows installed that will not meet the current requirements. Further, the results also showed evidence that the main obstacles are not related to prefabrication but occur much earlier in the value chain. However, obstacles that needs to be addressed concerning prefabrication is increased time- and cost aspects regarding uncertainties of attachments and design changes, as a result of the standardized and otherwise effective lead times. The conclusion drawn presents business strategy proposals for improvement potentials to facilitate the reform towards using reused windows in prefabricated production. The proposals concern internal business initiatives, prefabrication, and sectoral collaboration. Finally, suggestions for further research on the topic are discussed.