Review of concepts for construction and demolition waste and the circular economy

Alhawamdeh, Mahmoud; Ferriz-Papi, Juan; Goicolea, Elena; Ros Dosdá, Teresa; Valentine, Jan

Abstract

In order forconstruction and demolition waste (CDW)volumes, recovery targets and associated calculation rules to be quantified more accurately, it is critical that the types of CDW are classified andthatthe domains of the various ways in which it is managed are specified. This forms the foundation for formulation policies aimed at managing waste, as well as the implementation of regulatory measures designed for environmental protection. Globally, numerous guidelines, policies and regulations have emphasised CDW as a result of the significant volumes generated on an annual basis. Nevertheless, ambiguity regarding the definition of CDW coupled with a lack of clarity in terms of the breadth of methods employed for managing waste creates considerable challenges for the effective management of this type of waste. Furthermore, although the concept of the circular economy (CE) in the construction sector has attracted the attention of scholars, governments, and organisations, it appears to be merely an amalgamation of disparate and unstructured ideas. While the general perception is that transitioning to a CE facilitates a reduction in the demand for natural resources, this idea remains specious and unclear. Hence, the aim of this paper is to critically understand how CDW is classified, as well as to differentiate between the various methods employed in the waste management process. Additionally, it presents a discussion on the existing thought regarding the conceptof CE in the context of the construction sector. The paper’s findings can inform practical measures aimed at enhancing waste management application in addition to the ramifications for CE by offering guidance for planning, decision-making and establishing targets for reducing and recovering waste

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: 'Transforming Consumption-Production Systems Toward Just and Sustainable Futures' Wageningen University and Research International Conference
• Start Date: Jul 5, 2023
• End Date: Jul 6, 2023
• Acceptance Date: Jun 18, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Jun 18, 2023
• Publication Date: Jun 18, 2023
• Deposit Date: Sep 17, 2023
• Publisher URL: https://osf.io/z6tnm/?view_only=