A dual circular strategies hierarchy as a guiding framework for post-disaster recovery and reconstruction

Abstract

The circular economy has long been regarded as a key strategy for achieving sustainable development and has more recently been recognized as an effective approach to crisis response. This study contributes to this nascent literature by introducing a dual hierarchy of 6Rs strategies as a guiding framework for circular post-disaster recovery to support the integration of circularity into the United Nations' “Build Back Better” approach. The novelty of the proposed hierarchy lies in the two-vector operationalization of each strategy, considering both past and future perspectives. This dual focus facilitates the recovery of materials and components from disaster-affected buildings, the restoration of damaged structures, and the design of new buildings with a stronger emphasis on circularity. Based on the hierarchy, a typology of design strategies for circular recovery and reconstruction has been proposed, structured around four key features, offering practical guidance on how different aspects of circularity can be operationalized in rebuilding efforts. In addition, the study outlines methodological recommendations for assessing the circularity potential of damaged structures, a critical step in planning adaptive and resource-efficient rebuilding. The article also examines the case of war-torn Ukraine as one of the most devastating man-made disasters today. The potential for Ukraine's circular recovery within the framework of global and European Union disaster management mechanisms, as well as the European Commission's policies in the construction industry, has been explored. The study employs a three-step multi-method approach that includes a literature review, critical analysis, and conceptual modeling. Key findings, comprising a dual hierarchy of strategies, a typology of design approaches, and recommendations for circularity assessment, contribute to advancing circular recovery and reconstruction after disasters in various contexts, including war-torn Ukraine, and reflect their practical significance for circular recovery initiatives.