Assessment of effective waste recycling practices to minimise construction and demolition waste in Sri Lankan construction industry

Abstract

The construction industry, a vital sector driving global development, simultaneously contributes significantly to waste generation. This research delves into the assessment of effective waste recycling practices to minimise Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste in the Sri Lankan Construction Industry. The study aims to evaluate the most applicability waste recycling practices, identify implementation barriers, and provide recommendations for overcoming these barriers. A comprehensive literature review highlights the global significance of the construction industry and its substantial contribution to waste production. Effective waste management is crucial for cost, quality, time, and environmental impact. It advocates for scientific consultation to determine appropriate waste management practices, considering extended producer responsibility, Waste-to-Energy, material recovery facilities, source separation and landfill options. C&D waste production is linked to ecological consequences, necessitating sustainable waste management practices. Recycling C&D waste emerges as a viable mitigation strategy, offering benefits such as landslide risk reduction, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and natural resource protection. The research methodology used in this study is mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods. Major findings include appropriate waste recycling practices, implementation barriers, and recommendations for overcoming barriers. Waste management policy regulation and enforcement being the most applicable waste recycling practice according to RII analysis. The identified most significant barrier was the absence of rules and enforcement. Recommendations focus on awareness programs, incentivising through the tendering process, education and training, seeking international guidance and technology and government support programs. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in advancing waste recycling practices in the Sri Lankan Construction Industry.