International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 11 Issue: 07 | July 2024
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p-ISSN: 2395-0072
Investigating C&D Waste Recycling Enterprises Under Circular Economy in Developing Countries. Rajalakshmi Deshpande1 1Rajalakshmi Deshpande MS (Construction Management), Auckland University of Technology, Auckland,
New Zealand. Supervisor: Dr Dat Doan, Senior Lecturer, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand. ---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract - Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling
mitigate the environmental impact, governments are formulating guidelines for recycling and reusing building materials. Managing Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste is complex, involving disposal and recycling. Inadequate waste management leads to land degradation, resource depletion, and pollution. Efficient C&D Waste Management (CDWM) practices, prioritizing recycling, reduce the demand for natural resources and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with sustainability goals.
Enterprises (CDWREs) face challenges within the circular economy framework in developing countries. This study highlights key obstacles such as market competitiveness, operational inefficiencies, and regulatory barriers. CDWREs often encounter higher costs and lower product awareness compared to traditional material producers. Additionally, they face difficulties due to inadequate waste collection and sorting infrastructure, coupled with a lack of investment in modern recycling technologies. These problems are further compounded by inconsistent government regulations and complex permitting processes, which hinder the growth and sustainability of CDWREs. Adopting a circular economy framework greatly enhances resource efficiency by reusing materials from construction and demolition. This reduces the reliance on virgin materials, conserves natural resources, and lowers carbon emissions from raw material extraction. It promotes sustainable waste management by minimizing landfill use and pollution. The circular economy also drives innovation and economic growth, increasing demand for recycled materials and fostering new technologies that improve recycling efficiency and product quality. This creates new market opportunities, enhances competitiveness, and generates jobs, supporting broader environmental and economic goals.
The circular economy, promoting sustainable production and waste minimization, views C&D waste as a valuable resource. This model suggests that waste should be reused, generating economic value. However, integrating circular economy principles faces challenges, including high costs. Despite this, the circular economy's 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) are essential for sustainable CDWM. Recycling C&D waste can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce landfill use. CDWREs play a crucial role in transforming waste into valuable products, although they face challenges such as lack of regulatory guidance and short-term profit focus. Developing countries like China and India generate significant C&D waste, with most ending up in landfills due to ineffective practices and policies. In contrast, some developed countries are successful in diverting waste to recycling facilities.
This research emphasizes the potential for improvement through targeted government interventions, technological advancements, and public awareness. Clear regulations, financial incentives, and streamlined permits can support CDWREs. Investment in advanced recycling technologies and public education can enhance efficiency and demand, helping developing countries achieve sustainability and circular economy goals.
Effectively managing C&D waste is crucial, especially in developing countries with inadequate sustainability practices and formal recycling systems. There is a need for increased awareness and planning for CDWRE development within the circular economy framework to enhance resource recovery and sustainability in the construction sector.
Key Words: Circular Economy, Recycling Enterprises, Construction and Demolition, Waste Management.
1.1 Research Aim This research aims to investigate the barriers and provide developmental strategies for effective progression of CDWRE in the micro-environment of circular economy in developing countries. There are limited number of research papers that concentrate on CDWREs in developing countries. The results of this study can be utilized by industry stakeholders, policymakers, and regulatory authorities to progress and implement recycling waste management plans and facilitate
1.INTRODUCTION Infrastructure development significantly influences a country's economic landscape, with the global construction sector projected to grow at an annual rate of 3.6%, surpassing overall economic growth rates. However, the construction industry contributes to 50% of global solid waste due to its "take-make-dispose" approach [1]. To
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