A map of AI and innovative solutions for circularity in the construction sector, with technical data sheets, analysis of technical, organisational and legal barriers, and an operational roadmap …available for businesses, public administrations and professionals.
With the report "Overview of artificial intelligence-based tools in the construction sector: innovative technologies supporting circular construction", completed in April 2025 and now publicly available on the project website, the Jožef Stefan Institute team provides stakeholders with a systematic survey of AI solutions that are truly applicable to the circular transition of the construction sector, with a specific focus on Slovenia and Friuli Venezia Giulia and opportunities for cross-border collaboration.
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THE RESEARCH
A rigorous and iterative method for identifying, filtering and classifying AI tools that are truly useful to the supply chain.
Mapped AI solutions, some of which have been selected as immediately transferable to the cross-border context, described with operational sheets highlighting their functions, advantages/disadvantages, target customers and AI methods used.
Various categories of application covering the entire life cycle of the building: from project management and collaboration to digital twins, through generative design, LCA, construction site safety via computer vision, drones, building automation and smart materials.
An international comparative analysis, followed by a snapshot of the current positioning of Slovenia and FVG (indicators, initiatives, leading companies) and cross-border synergies to be activated.
A focus on the barriers that hinder the adoption of the identified innovations (including, for example, integration with legacy systems, data quality/standards, lack of digital skills, uncertain ROI, privacy & GDPR, liability, algorithmic transparency, regulatory aspects & AI Act, etc.) and recommendations for overcoming them.
AREAS OF APPLICATION
The identified innovations and artificial intelligence tools are applicable to different stages of a building's life cycle and are therefore useful to almost all professionals and companies active in the sector. By way of example, the identified tools are useful for innovating:
1. Project management and collaboration within the team
2. Construction site monitoring using drones, with guaranteed rapid surveys, safety and high-frequency data
3. Quality and safety management, thanks to AI guidance (e.g. computer vision solutions that reduce accidents and non-compliance)
4. The pre-construction phase and contract management, with tools that facilitate supplier selection, bid analysis, etc.
5. Circular building construction and sustainable planning, thanks to tools for LCA/LCC and low-carbon decision making.
6. Predictive analysis and maintenance: from performance monitoring to alerts on failures and degradation.
7. Design optimisation & generative design
8. Management of so-called digital twins, with real-time simulations for performance, maintenance and resilience.
9. Process automation
10. Visual analysis & image processing
THE SITUATION IN THE CROSS-BORDER TERRITORY AND THE NEXT STEPS
The research shows high growth potential on both sides of the border, with complementary strengths: advanced research ecosystems (JSI, universities), clusters and hubs for digital transformation, public programmes and EU funds already available. The report also proposes some initial recommendations for the cross-border territory (including, for example, the launch of cross-border pilot projects, common data governance, the launch of joint training programmes, etc.).
CONCRETE BENEFITS FOR YOUR BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL FIRM IN THE COMING MONTHS
In the coming months, the Circular.Buildings project will explain in detail and transfer all the innovations mentioned in the research to stakeholders in the sector. The following are planned:
Video clips in which industry experts will explain the advantages and technical aspects of the innovative tools identified
Practical workshops, in which AI tools will be explained and discussed in depth
Targeted consultations, reserved for a limited number of companies, which will be accompanied in the adoption of some of these solutions – those interested in this opportunity, available free of charge thanks to the support of the project, can contact the Circular.Buildings staff now - circular.buildings@ecipa.eu
The publication of a web platform that will collect best practices, case studies, a section dedicated to networking, and a path to guide companies and professionals with the support of Artificial Intelligence tools.
DOWNLOAD AND LEARN MORE
Those interested can read the full article and download the research from the project website.
To receive the analysis document directly by email or to request targeted support in adopting best practices, write to: circular.buildings@ecipa.eu.
