New research project – CIRCTimber – New approaches and a real-world laboratory for transforming the linear timber construction industry into a circular value chain and developing high-potential business models

The CIRCTimber project is developing an integrated roadmap for the transition from today’s predominantly linear timber construction industry towards a circular value chain. The aim is to make the use of waste timber in the construction industry technically, economically and socially viable. To this end, the project is examining existing material flows, processes and market conditions, as well as technical and psychological factors that significantly influence reuse and acceptance.

The Institute of Construction Management (IBB) at TU Dresden is analysing the current process landscape relating to the dismantling, processing and reuse of timber components. Building on this, the IBB is developing organisational, economic and digital solutions – including business and incentive models, process and logistics concepts, and ideas for digital marketplaces for reusable components. 

The Institute for Steel and Timber Structures (ISH) at TU Dresden is investigating the technical requirements for safe and standards-compliant reuse. This includes non-destructive testing methods, assessments of load-bearing capacity and durability, separable structures, and contributions to the standardisation and further development of relevant standards.

RWTH Aachen University (Institute of Psychology: Occupational and Engineering Psychology) is conducting research into the psychological factors influencing acceptance, trust and willingness to use. The research examines individual perceptions, decision-making heuristics and cognitive biases, as well as the expectations of different stakeholder groups regarding waste wood. Based on this, strategies are developed for effective communication, framing and acceptance management. 

All solutions are tested in a real-world laboratory in collaboration with partners from the demolition, processing, planning and timber construction sectors, validated in practice and demonstrated in a pilot project. On this basis, a roadmap is drawn up which provides specific recommendations for action for policymakers, industry and practitioners, and sets out the path towards a circular timber economy. 

Commissioning body:
Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

Project partners:
Institute of Steel and Timber Structures, TU Dresden
Occupational and Engineering Psychology, Institute of Psychology, RWTH Aachen

Project duration:
1 April 2026 – 31 March 2029

Contact:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jens Otto,
M.Sc. Ranya Abdul Khalek