Demountable and reusable architecture: promoting a true circular economy in ecuadorian industry

Abstract

The construction industry in Ecuador faces the challenge of transitioning toward a sustainable model that surpasses the linear scheme of extraction, production, and disposal, which is responsible for high resource consumption and significant construction and demolition waste (CDW) generation. This study analyzes the feasibility of implementing demountable and reusable architecture as a strategy to foster a true circular economy in the sector. Based on a mixed-method approach with a predominantly qualitative design and supporting quantitative analysis, the research included a documentary review of regulatory frameworks, official statistics, and international studies, complemented by semi-structured interviews with key industry stakeholders. Findings indicate that between 2015 and 2022, CDW generation and virgin material consumption exhibited an upward trend, confirming the dependency on traditional building models. However, prospective scenario modeling suggests that adopting design for disassembly principles could reduce waste generation by 33.3% by 2030, while also creating a secondary market for reusable materials. The evaluation of local resources highlighted Guadua bamboo and cross-laminated timber as the most promising materials due to their low carbon footprint and ease of reuse. These results demonstrate that demountable architecture is not only environmentally feasible but also offers economic and social opportunities by recovering ancestral knowledge and promoting sustainable value chains. The study concludes that transitioning to this paradigm represents a strategic pathway for ensuring resilience, innovation, and sustainability in Ecuador’s construction industry.