Exploring waste reduction approaches in the architectural design stage of university buildings in the United States

Abstract

Determining construction and demolition (C&D) waste reduction approaches in the architectural design stage is critical since this waste can be reduced by design decisions. Additionally, adding space and equipment which allow collection, recycling, and storage of solid waste at the usage phase of buildings are important in terms of design decisions. An online survey concerning design decisions of university buildings was conducted among United States (US) higher education institutions. Responses for 74 building projects from 71 universities were collected, analysed descriptively (i.e. percentages), and inferentially (i.e. correlations). Responses in some categories were aggregated to determine the total environment scores of the universities. The highest possible environmental score was determined as 8. While the score of 12 universities was 7, the score of three universities was 0. Of the participants, 85% stated that their University required architect to include specific design features for solid waste management (SWM) in the building; 89% stated that the University asked to use greener materials; 78% stated that the University asked to use longer-lasting building products. A set of recommendations and suggestions were provided to deal with the C&D and solid waste issue arising from university buildings.