Construction and demolition waste (CDW) is rapidly emerging as a focal point in the quest for sustainable development within the construction sector. A recent comprehensive review published in the journal Energies highlights the pressing need for innovative management practices that not only address the environmental challenges posed by CDW but also unlock its potential for economic valorization. Lead author Natalija Cudecka-Purina from the Department of Management at the BA School of Business and Finance in Riga, Latvia, emphasizes the dual challenge and opportunity presented by this waste stream.
“CDW accounts for over a third of all waste generated in the EU, which is staggering,” Cudecka-Purina notes. “Yet, it also represents a vast reservoir of materials that can be recycled or repurposed, potentially contributing to energy recovery and enhancing industrial symbiosis.”
The research reveals that despite the well-established technologies for separating and recovering CDW, recycling rates across Europe vary dramatically, with some countries achieving rates as low as 10% while others soar above 95%. This disparity underscores a critical need for municipalities to step up their efforts in enforcing waste management regulations, developing infrastructure, and promoting recycling initiatives.
Municipalities play a pivotal role in CDW management, not only through regulatory frameworks but also by fostering public engagement and education. Cudecka-Purina emphasizes that “effective waste management can lower disposal costs while generating revenue from recycled materials, thus enhancing the economic viability of construction projects.”
The study also highlights a case study from Latvia, which provides insights into household-level practices in CDW management. While Latvia shows promise in achieving relevant UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it still faces challenges, particularly in public awareness and education regarding proper waste disposal. Alarmingly, the study found that over a third of respondents improperly disposed of CDW, indicating a pressing need for targeted educational programs.
A noteworthy development highlighted in the review is Latvia’s first CDW exchange point, launched in October 2023, which promotes the circular economy by facilitating the reuse and exchange of construction materials and tools. “In just three months, we’ve seen over 2 tons of materials being reused,” Cudecka-Purina reported, showcasing the initiative’s potential to reshape waste management practices at the community level.
As the construction industry grapples with the implications of CDW, the research suggests that energy recovery could play a significant role, with estimates indicating that 20-30% of the total CDW flow could be harnessed for energy production. This aligns with the broader movement towards a circular economy, where waste is not merely discarded but transformed into valuable resources.
Future research directions outlined in the study advocate for standardized methodologies and innovative technologies, such as AI-driven sorting systems and blockchain for tracking material flows. These advancements could enhance the economic viability and environmental performance of CDW management, ultimately driving the construction sector toward a more sustainable future.
The findings of this research not only provide a roadmap for effective CDW management but also highlight the commercial impacts that can arise from embracing sustainable practices. As Cudecka-Purina succinctly puts it, “The potential for valorization of CDW is undeniable, and by addressing these challenges, we can pave the way for a more circular and sustainable construction industry.”
For those interested in exploring this research further, it is published in the journal Energies, which translates to “Energies” in English. To learn more about the work of Cudecka-Purina and her team, visit lead_author_affiliation.
