Analysis of Construction and Demolition Waste Management Policies from Sustainability Perspective

The modernization and up gradation of human habitat often results in new construction as well as the generation of construction and demolition (C and D) waste. The efficient management of C and D waste has become the main area of concern for the policy makers due to increasing quantum of C and D waste generation. Various research studies have investigated C and D waste from the viewpoint of demolition methodology, treatment technologies, and tools and techniques for reduction of C and D waste. Although, there is a need for integration of these different viewpoints and holistic understanding of policy efforts towards the management of C and D from a sustainability perspective. This research study is a first step towards understanding the adoption of sustainable policy practices for management of C and D waste. The sustainability measures for management of C and D waste were identified, and these measures were used for analysis of global policy practices. The analysis indicated that the financial incentives for waste minimization and concentrating on waste reduction rather than waste treatment and recycling have the potential to achieve sustainability. Thus, a policy framework for waste minimization is needed, which can propagate cleaner technologies, mechanisms and treatment. This research study has developed a framework indicating a stepwise approach for the adoption of sustainable practices in the management of C and D waste.