constructionwaste

Construction waste, also known as construction and demolition waste, is the material byproduct generated during construction, renovation, and demolition of buildings and infrastructure. It includes concrete, masonry, wood, metals, plastics, drywall, insulation, glass, asphalt, soil, and vegetation, as well as hazardous substances such as asbestos when present. The mix varies by project.

Generation and composition: In many markets, concrete and masonry dominate CDW, followed by wood, metal, drywall, and plastics. The waste stream is influenced by project type, design choices, demolition practice, and material standards, with larger sites generally producing more waste and more opportunities for sorting and reuse.

Management: Effective CDW management emphasizes prevention and on-site sorting, reuse, and recycling. Approaches include design for deconstruction, modular construction, and specifying recyclable materials. On-site activities such as crushing concrete for aggregate or reclaiming timber and metal can raise diversion rates; proper storage and labeling reduce contamination.

Regulation and outcomes: Jurisdictions regulate CDW through waste classification rules, diversion targets, and reporting. Common metrics are diversion rate and recycling rate. Benefits include reduced landfill use, conservation of virgin resources, and potential cost savings, though recycling may entail energy use and contamination risks.

Challenges and trends: Contamination and market limitations can hinder recycling. There is growing emphasis on circular economy practices, deconstruction over demolition, and markets for recycled aggregates and reclaimed materials. Policy, design innovation, and improved life-cycle assessment are advancing safer, more sustainable handling of construction waste.