A field based methodology for estimating waste generation rates at various stages of construction projects

Abstract

The growth in construction activities over the past two decades has resulted in a parallel increase in the amount of generated construction waste. This growth, coupled with shortages in landfill space particularly in urban areas, has proven to be a challenging stressor to the environment. Management of construction waste has thus become a problem attracting increasing attention worldwide. In this context, the quantification of waste streams generated from various construction stages is the first step for managing construction waste. In this study, a methodology for quantifying waste streams arising at various construction stages is proposed. The methodology is then tested at a field scale to estimate generation rates for major waste streams and the total construction waste generation rate for the purpose of developing a generalized construction waste management plan that can be applied at a city/regional/country level. The results of the study reveal that the total construction waste generation rate falls within the range of 38-43 kg/m2, with masonry and concrete constituting more than 60% of the total waste. The study concludes with a set of recommendations addressing the most important issues contributing to a successful implementation of an integrated construction waste management plan. © 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.