Abstract:
Purpose – The construction industry consumes large amounts of natural resources, which are not
properly utilised owing to the generation of waste. Construction waste has challenged the performance
of the industry and its sustainable goals. The majority of the causes underlying material waste are
directly or indirectly affected by the behaviour of the construction workforce. Waste occurs on site for
a number of reasons, most of which can be prevented, particularly by changing the attitudes of the
construction workforce. Therefore, the attitudes and perceptions of the construction workforce can
influence the generation and implementation of waste management strategies. The research reported
in this paper is based on a study aimed at evaluating the attitudes and perceptions of the construction
workforce involved during the pre- and post-contract stages towards minimising waste.
Design/methodology/approach – A structured questionnaire survey was carried out to
understand and evaluate the attitudes and perceptions of the workforce. Four types of
questionnaires were prepared for project managers/site managers, supervisors, labourers, and
estimators.
Findings – The findings indicate the positive perceptions and attitudes of the construction workforce
towards minimising waste and conserving natural resources. However, a lack of effort in practising
these positive attitudes and perceptions towards waste minimisation is identified. The paper further
concludes that negative attitudes towards subordinates, attitudinal differences between different
working groups, and a lack of training to reinforce the importance of waste minimisation practices
have obstructed proper waste management practices in the industry.
Originality/value – The paper reveals the effect of the attitudes and perceptions of the construction
workforce towards waste management applications, which would be of benefit to construction
managers in designing and implementing better waste management practices.
