In the bustling construction landscape of India, a pressing issue lurks beneath the surface: the improper disposal of construction and demolition waste (CDW). A recent study published in *Scientific Reports* (translated as “Scientific Reports”), led by Hammadhu HaitherAli from the School of Civil Engineering at Vellore Institute of Technology, sheds light on the attitudes and market strategies surrounding recycled CDW, offering insights that could reshape the industry’s approach to waste management and circular economy practices.
The study, which surveyed 73 stakeholders in Chennai, revealed a startling lack of awareness about local waste management regulations, with only 14% of respondents demonstrating familiarity. More alarmingly, over 60% admitted to disposing of waste in non-compliant manners, such as on roadsides, waterbodies, and open lands. “The current practices are not only environmentally harmful but also pose significant infrastructural challenges,” HaitherAli noted.
The research identified several barriers to the adoption of recycled secondary materials (SM). Quality emerged as the most critical factor influencing purchase decisions, scoring 14.11 out of 15. However, a staggering 85% of respondents expressed reluctance to adopt recycled materials, citing concerns over procurement distance, costs, and the absence of client demand. “The qualitative findings further reinforced quality concerns as the dominant barrier,” HaitherAli explained.
To address these challenges, the study highlights the need for strong policy support, such as fiscal incentives, targeted marketing strategies like decentralized supply and diversified products, and improved industrial readiness through stakeholder awareness. “Our findings align with the Sustainable Development Goals 9, 11, and 12, providing actionable insights for policymakers and recycling businesses,” HaitherAli said.
The implications for the construction and demolition sector are profound. By promoting the use of recycled materials, the industry can significantly reduce its environmental footprint while tapping into a new market opportunity. “The circular economy is not just about sustainability; it’s about smart business practices that can drive growth and innovation,” HaitherAli remarked.
As the construction industry grapples with the challenges of waste management, this research offers a roadmap for transitioning towards a more circular and sustainable future. By addressing the identified barriers and leveraging the opportunities, stakeholders can pave the way for a more environmentally conscious and economically robust industry. The study, published in *Scientific Reports*, serves as a clarion call for action, urging policymakers, businesses, and consumers to embrace the circular economy and drive meaningful change in the construction and demolition sector.