Integrating circular economy principles into concrete technology: Enhancing sustainability through industrial waste utilization

This study assesses the integration of circular economy principles in concrete technology to mitigate the environmental impacts of traditional concrete production and promote sustainable construction practices. Using a comprehensive literature review, the research examines the utilization of various industrial waste materials—such as fly ash, coal bottom ash, palm oil fuel ash, sugarcane bagasse ash, and ground granulated blast furnace slag—as supplementary cementitious materials. The analysis focuses on their properties, environmental benefits, and potential to enhance concrete sustainability. The findings reveal that these industrial wastes can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of concrete production while improving mechanical properties and durability. The materials demonstrate notable pozzolanic characteristics and contribute to enhanced resilience in concrete structures. The study underscores the critical role of circular economy practices in transforming the construction sector, advocating for the adoption of waste-derived SCMs to foster environmental stewardship and sustainable development in the industry. •Industrial waste utilized as eco-friendly additives in concrete.•Significant reduction in environmental impact of concrete demonstrated.•Circular economy practices in construction explored and delineated.•Life Cycle Assessment applied to evaluate material sustainability.•Barriers to sustainable adoption of eco-concrete identified and analyzed.