Documenting for circularity through the lens of the Material Passport: Acceptability and perceptions of building information management

The transition to a circular economy in the construction sector depends on accurate, up-to-date information to facilitate material reuse. Material Passports (MPs) have emerged as a key tool to address existing information gaps, particularly when integrated with Building Information Modeling (BIM), which provides a digital infrastructure for data management. However, successful MP implementation hinges on stakeholder engagement. To explore stakeholder perceptions and acceptability, we conducted 18 semi-structured interviews with Belgian stakeholders representing different stages of the building lifecycle. Through our analysis, we found strong support for MPs among participants familiar with the concept, who viewed them as a promising mechanism for advancing material reuse. Five key motivations for MP adoption were identified: (1) enhancing material understanding, (2) documenting strategic project approaches and implemented concepts, (3) improving information accessibility and overall information management, (4) navigating through data overload and complexity, and (5) bridging theory and practice through demonstrative projects. While digital tools like BIM and AI are seen as critical enablers, concerns persist regarding their complexity, interoperability, and data reliability. By aligning stakeholder expectations with practical implementation strategies, this study provides actionable insights to support the effective integration of MPs into the stakeholders’ workflows.