Acta Scientiarum Polonorum

The aim of the article is an analysis of the possibility of introducing housing construction into a more sustainable and ecological level, through the concept of circular economy (CE) in the construction industry. Housing is an important part of the economy and construction sector. Development of this sector results from a growing population in urban areas and the need of modernization of existing residential buildings. Contemporary realizations of housing environments should consider the reduction of the negative impact on the natural environment. This is possible to achieve by reducing the use of natural resources and start using recycled materials. This assumption belongs to the basic CE task, which allows a recirculation of building materials. To discuss the basic work, the assumptions used a non-reactive desk research method. The review of scientific publications and reports included a subject: (i) concept of CE, (ii) CE in construction sector, (iii) CE in housing construction. The second part of the study analysed innovative ways of using recycled materials and their implementation in new building materials (used in residential construction). Eco-innovation overview includes: (i) bricks from plastic waste, (ii) 3D printing of buildings from recycled materials, (iii) facade plates made of recycling materials. In discussion, the research revealed a number of barriers preventing the effective implementation of CE in the construction industry. The discussion indicates three potential barriers to the implementation of CE in housing environments: (i) social responsibility of the construction industry, (ii) recycling of building materials, (iii) building material resulting from recycling. Final paper conclusions confirming the rightness to implement CE concept in housing construction, thanks to which it will be possible to reduce the negative impact on the environment.