Manuscript Title:

CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND CONSCIOUS CONSUMPTION: A LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCT REPURPOSING IN SAUDI HOUSEHOLDS

Author:

FAISAL A. OSRA

DOI Number:

DOI:10.5281/zenodo.21407454

Published : 2026-07-10

About the author(s)

1. FAISAL A. OSRA - Professor, Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering and Architecture, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

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Abstract

This study aims to explore the concept of product repurposing as a strategy to support the principles of the circular economy and conscious consumption among the Saudi households using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach. With the growth of consumption patterns and an increase in waste generation, the need for sustainable household practices that can help increase product lifespan and minimize environmental impact is greater than ever. The paper explores the reuse of textiles, furniture, electronics, packaging and household items and analyzes their environmental, economic and social effects. Based on survey data and LCA methodologies, the study investigates the consumption of resources, greenhouse gas emissions, waste reduction and landfill diversion due to home-based re-use activities in KSA. The results suggest that the reuse significantly helps in reducing materials consumption, prolonging product life and contributing to sustainable development goals that are aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. The factors found to be important in driving repurposing behavior were the economic savings, cultural values, and ethical issues, and the factors found to be important barriers to repurposing behavior were limited infrastructure, awareness gaps and market uncertainties. The study underscores the significance of implementing supportive policies, awareness programs, and design-for-repurposability measures to bolster circular consumption and foster sustainability transitions within Saudi households.


Keywords

Circularity; Repurposing; Sustainability; Consumption; Upcycling; Conscious Consumption.