SMART-Plant_IWARR2019_Evaluating Construction Industry Views on Recovered

Abstract: The construction sector is under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable products and
materials. However, the adoption of new technologies and processes can be risky and complex, with a
variety of potential concerns and challenges. Cellulose recovered from wastewater can be used in
building materials – namely insulation, asphalt, and polymer composites – to replace certain existing
components and help drive down the overall carbon footprint of the construction industry. However, it
is unclear how well this innovative material might be accepted and what kinds of concerns those within
the construction industry might have about its use. The current study used an online survey, targeted at
construction and development professionals, to evaluate perceptions, expectations, and factors which
impact the uptake of recovered cellulose materials. Overall, preliminary findings show a support for the
use of these materials, however factors such as cost were identified as being a key driver of adoption.