Resumen de Barriers to implementing circular economy learning processes in the construction sector: An analysis of Italian SMEs

Sara Scipioni, Lucio Todisco, Gianluigi Mangia, Federico Niccolini

• This paper aims to understand the application of Circular Economy (CE) solutions to the Italian construction sector, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Specific attention is given to identifying the barriers that influence the effective implementation of circular business models (CBMs). Informed by grounded theory, the perceptions of top managers in Italian construction SMEs were investigated using a focus group methodology. The data obtained were subsequently explored and processed through iterative coding, using the theoretical insights found in the organisational learning (OL) and CE literature. The study highlights multilevel barriers across the construction sector, supply chain networks and individual organisations; it identifies culture as a critical barrier in the implementations of CBMs in Italy.