Matilde Navaro
The European construction industry is characterised by a predominance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), siloed organisational structures and a persistent lack of inter-firm cohesion (Mohd Nawi et al., 2014). Despite operating in shared territorial and market contexts, companies in this sector tend to function as isolated entities, generating logistical inefficiencies and a growing environmental footprint. Addressing these challenges does not mean consolidating actors into larger structures but rather, it requires fostering collaboration that preserves the identity and specificity of each company while enabling coordinated responses to shared logistical, economic and environmental pressures (Bistagnino, 2011).
This PhD research investigates the systemic transformation of construction logistics within a regional case study, focusing on a network of four independent companies operating in Piemonte (Italy). Currently organised as separate entities, these companies face logistical inefficiencies and limited resilience due to fragmented procurement, storage, distribution systems and waste disposal across geographically dispersed headquarters. The research explores how systemic design can foster logistical change, enabling the transition from isolated operations to a coordinated territorial framework based on cooperation and shared operational infrastructure among local actors. Through this approach, the study maps material flows, infrastructural assets and organisational relationships to identify opportunities for integration and optimisation across procurement, warehousing and delivery processes of these companies.
A second focus is on the existing reverse logistics network for the collection of construction site debris (aggregates, debris) and waste (metals, plastics, nylon, wood, plasterboard), which represents a consolidated component and a strength, yet is still poorly integrated into the system. The research investigates how this infrastructure can be reimagined as part of a broader, circular and systemic logistics model that involves all the companies considered. Furthermore, the study considers how shared logistics strategies can improve collaboration between local actors, expand the stakeholder network, reduce territorial fragmentation and increase the capacity to adapt to future economic and environmental uncertainties.
Combining systemic design methods including territorial analysis and material flow mapping, the study aims to support the development of a more resilient, scalable and environmentally aware logistics system with objective and scalable measurement tools, capable of expanding its distribution reach while strengthening local coordination among the stakeholders involved.
As the first output of an ongoing three-year process, this paper reports on the diagnostic phase of the research rather than on consolidated results: it presents the methodological framework being developed and a set of preliminary, still-provisional observations, with the aim of situating this work within the broader dialogue on the many possible ‘shades’ of systemic design practice.
Keywords: construction building, systemic design, circular economy, holistic diagnosis, reverse logistics, material flow analysis.