Journal of Advances in Engineering and Technology [JAET]

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The Journal of Advances in Engineering and Technology (JAET) is an international, open access, double blind peer-reviewed journal. It is published by the Faculty of Engineering of Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT). The JAET aims at fostering research and development work in Engineering and Technology and bringing researchers on to a common platform. Furthermore, JAET will also accept review articles on appropriate subject areas including concept papers of academic opinions, book reviews, etc. for publication therein.

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Author: search.filters.author.Gunarathna, K A NSubject: search.filters.subject.Circular Economy

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    Circular Economy Practices in Road Rehabilitation and Development in Sri Lanka
    (Faculty of Engineering, 2026-03) De Alwis, L. M.; Gunarathna, K A N; Kalugala, C.
    The integration of Circular Economy principles into road rehabilitation and development offers a sustainable alternative to traditional linear construction practices. In Sri Lanka, where road infrastructure is crucial to economic growth and connectivity, the Circular Economy offers opportunities to reduce reliance on virgin materials, minimise environmental impact, and enhance longterm cost efficiency. This study explored applicable Circular Economy strategies, assessed current implementation practices, identified key challenges, and proposed viable solutions to support Circular Economy adoption in the Sri Lankan Road sector. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a comprehensive literature review with data from semi-structured expert interviews and a questionnaire survey of construction professionals. The findings indicate that while awareness of the Circular Economy is growing, its practical application remains limited due to barriers such as the absence of standardized technical guidelines, insufficient government incentives, limited stakeholder knowledge, logistical challenges in material sourcing and storage, and reluctance to shift from traditional methods. Data also highlights substantial potential benefits, including cost savings, reduced construction waste, increased material efficiency, and environmental improvements. Participants emphasized the importance of pilot projects, training programs, and policy support in promoting Circular Economy practices. To overcome existing barriers, the study recommends the development of clear Circular Economy specifications, financial incentives, capacity-building initiatives, and the establishment of centralized recycling infrastructure. These strategic actions can facilitate the transition toward a more circular and sustainable approach in Sri Lanka’s Road construction and maintenance sectors.
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    ItemOpen Access
    ADOPTION OF A CIRCULAR ECONOMY FRAMEWORK IN THE DESIGN PHASE OF THE REFURBISHMENT PROJECT
    (Faculty of Engineering, 2026-01) Abilash, S; Gunarathna, K A N; Kalugala,C.
    Sustainable development in the built environment depends on minimizing environmental impact and conserving resources. In refurbishment projects, integrating circular economy (CE) principles during the design stage can significantly reduce waste and enhance resource efficiency. This study presents a tailored CE framework based on the 2D3R model, which emphasizes Design for Disassembly, Design for Adaptability, and Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle strategies. The framework was developed through a combination of literature review, expert interviews, and survey analysis to identify drivers and barriers to CE adoption in refurbishment. Key findings highlight the role of digital technologies particularly Building Information Modelling (BIM) in improving material traceability and facilitating lifecycle assessments. These tools support the implementation of circular strategies by enabling better planning and design decisions early in the project. The study concludes that applying the 2D3R approach in initial design phases enhances sustainability, reduces costs, and improves the adaptability and longevity of refurbished buildings.