International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 10 Issue: 05 | May 2023
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Construction and Demolition Waste Reduction in Austin, TX: A Review of Best Practices, Case Study, and Project Proposal Tijani Mohammed1; Daniel D. Akerele2 1 Ingram School of Engineering, Texas State University;
2 Department of Construction Management, University of Washington. ------------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------Abstract
Construction and demolition (C&D) waste is a significant environmental concern, as a large amount of waste is generated and sent to landfills each year. To address this environmental issue, this article provides an in-depth overview of the best management practices for the reduction of C&D waste materials generated and ending up in landfills. The article covers several critical areas, including current policies and legislation influencing C&D waste management in different states, with a particular focus on Austin, Texas. The review identifies some best practices for managing C&D wastes, such as conducting an inventory of recyclable materials, assessing the economic and environmental benefits of recycling, identifying the best recycling options, establishing a storage and pick-up plan with recycling companies, and educating employees. In addition, the article points out the importance of C&D waste reduction and recycling in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability. By implementing these best practices, construction companies and contractors can significantly reduce the amount of C&D waste sent to landfills, conserve natural resources, and contribute to a more sustainable future. In general, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for industry professionals, concerned individuals and policymakers seeking to improve C&D waste management practices and promote sustainable practices in the construction industry.
Keywords: Construction, demolition, waste management, recycle, reuse, policies and regulations, sustainability, Landfills, Austin Texas.
Introduction and Background Construction is an important sector for the development of the economy and infrastructure of a country, but it has also been proven to generate a significant amount of waste. Construction and demolition (C&D) waste refers to the materials that are discarded or in excess from construction, demolition, and renovation activities (Thomas & Wilson, 2013). C&D waste can include concrete, metal, wood, glass, asphalt, plastic, tile, drywall, insulation, and roofing materials. These wastes are often bulky, heavy, and difficult to recycle or dispose of. In addition, they can pose environmental and health hazards if they are not responsibly managed. C&D waste can contribute to land degradation, greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution and resource depletion (Thomas & Wilson, 2013). As a result, it is essential to adopt effective strategies for reducing, reusing, and recycling C&D waste materials. Construction and Demolition waste management is the process of minimizing the generation of wastes particular to construction activities and maximizing its recovery and reuse. C&D waste management can benefit the construction industry by means of cost reduction, increased profitability, and enhanced sustainability. C&D waste management can also benefit the environment and society by conserving natural resources, mitigating climate change impacts, and saving landfill space (“A Critical Literature Review on Construction Waste Management”). C&D waste management can be implemented at various stages of the construction process, such as planning, design, procurement, construction, and demolition. At every stage, careful consideration of the materials used and reused can potentially help to optimize C&D waste management plans. One of the means to compare and evaluate C&D waste management practices in different regions is to study their policies and regulations. Policies and regulations can provide inducements or requirements for diversion of C&D from landfills. C&D waste diversion refers to the process of separating C&D waste materials at source or at a designated facility for reuse or recycling. C&D waste diversion can significantly reduce the amount of waste disposed in landfills and increase the availability of recycled materials for construction purposes. Different regions in and around the United States have adopted different approaches to C&D waste diversion policies and regulations, depending on their local context and challenges. In this paper, we will review some of the best practices of C&D waste diversion policies and regulations in five regions: Massachusetts, Washington, Ontario, San Jose, and Hawaii.
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