LCA on Construction and Demolition Waste Management Approaches: A review

Abstract

The management of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste remains an incessant problem. Traditional ways to minimize C&D wastes lacks flexibility and long-term reliability. There is increasing focus on sustainable waste management; so there is need of innovative and sophisticated waste management approaches that focus on processes and embodies adaptability. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a globally standardized methodology for environmental assessment for any product or system and also helps in process of planning and decision making. With regards to sustainable management; LCA is one of the best tools. This study reviews the prior published literatures to reveal the state-of-the-art of LCA approaches employed in C&D waste management (CDWM), especially, literatures evaluating different scenarios. This study also discusses the LCA history, concepts and methodology. A content-based analysis of literatures published in the past two decades is done. It is found that almost 70% of LCA studies were done in European countries; this shows the deficiencies in research in this area in other countries, especially in developing countries like India. Limitations, recommendations and future scope with respect to LCA on various aspects of CDWM like collection, transportation, recycling and landfilling are enumerated. This consolidated study will be beneficial for researchers and practitioners as it provides insights into employment of LCA on CDWM and to develop well-balanced CDWM model.