Analysis of factors affecting construction and demolition waste reduction in Egypt

Abstract

Construction projects are associated with construction and demolition waste (CDW) generated at different stages. In Egypt's case, the CDW problem has become a significant challenge, anad the need to find sustainable solutions is overwhelming. Based on recent investigations in the literature, it was found that six main factors are affecting CDW reduction (CDWR) as follows: (1) waste-efficient materials procurement measures; (2) waste-efficient materials procurement models; (3) green materials procurement approach; (4) legislation; (5) culture & behaviour; and (6) awareness. In this study, a representative sample of Egyptian construction firms was screened to (1) investigate the applicability and effectiveness of CDWR factors in the Egyptian construction sector; and (2) examine the relationship between these factors and CDWR. The results revealed that (1) among different factors, ‘correct materials purchase’ is the most applied item while ‘reducing overall material use by using prefabricated elements and highly durable materials’ is the most effective item; and (2) there are statistically significant positive relationships between CDWR and different factors except ‘legislation’. The results demonstrate the necessity of developing a conceptuweal framework, as a next research initiative, consisting of these different factors for CDWR in Egypt.