Construction and demolition waste recycling: the case of construction waste management (COWAM) project

Abstract

Construction waste in general consists of both waste generated by construction as well as demolition. Disposal of demolition waste is becoming a growing problem which became evident after the Indian Ocean Tsunami in 2004, particularly in Sri Lanka. Management of these wastes came into picture with the establishment of a C&D waste recycling plant by the Construction Waste Management (COWAM) Project. With the development of construction industry, the question arises whether COWAM plant alone is capable of managing such waste. Thus, this paper presents recommendations to further improve the COWAM plant by expanding the same into other local areas. COWAM plant was selected as a single case study and data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. It revealed lack of funds to establish recycling plants and infrastructure and unavailability of a proper C&D waste management policy in Sri Lanka as major problems. Taking contracts to demolish buildings and increasing the number of productions are the most important recommendations to improve the COWAM plant. Further, allocation of requisite budget for infrastructure and public awareness is recommended to enhance the COWAM concept in Sri Lanka.