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Article
Publication date: 28 February 2023

Gihan Anuradha Tennakoon, Raufdeen Rameezdeen and Nicholas Chileshe

The uptake of reprocessed construction materials (RCMs) derived from demolition waste (DW) is limited, which questions the long-term sustainability of DW reverse logistics (RL)…

Abstract

Purpose

The uptake of reprocessed construction materials (RCMs) derived from demolition waste (DW) is limited, which questions the long-term sustainability of DW reverse logistics (RL). To address this gap, the current study focused on identifying informational and structural interventions to promote the uptake of RCMs among Australian construction professionals (CPs).

Design/methodology/approach

Following a qualitative research approach with thirty-one semi-structured interviews, the study explored potential interventions that can drive broader RCM usage. The study's strength lies in the in-depth qualitative insights gathered through extensive interviews with CPs experienced in using RCMs.

Findings

Sixteen informational and structural interventions to promote the uptake of RCMs were identified and mapped against the industry levels at which they should be implemented. RCM suppliers should focus on improving material quality, supply and marketing while minimising material costs. Governments should encourage using RCMs through incentivisation, supportive legislation and approval processes. The significance of awareness building and research was also recognised, which requires the collective efforts of suppliers, governmental and non-governmental bodies and educational institutes.

Originality/value

Despite the talk around sustainable consumption, the actual walk towards this is limited from a construction perspective, as seen through the low uptake of RCMs. This study attempts to bridge this mismatch by outlining informational and structural interventions that would drive CPs to walk the talk and use RCMs for construction applications. While most studies on DW RL have focused on improving waste recovery processes, this study takes a less-trodden path and explores the potential for developing markets for RCMs.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 April 2023

Gihan Anuradha Tennakoon, Raufdeen Rameezdeen and Nicholas Chileshe

Timber waste from construction is downcycled into non-structural products, incinerated for energy generation or disposed of in landfills. Existing literature highlights that the…

Abstract

Purpose

Timber waste from construction is downcycled into non-structural products, incinerated for energy generation or disposed of in landfills. Existing literature highlights that the use of reprocessed timber for structural purposes is limited. Therefore, this study aims to focus on identifying factors limiting reprocessed structural timber (RST) uptake amongst construction professionals in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

Current literature shows that the use of reprocessed materials (RMs) depends on user-specific personal factors and broader contextual factors. Therefore, data collection and analysis were based on the attitude-behaviour-context (ABC) theory, which affirms this relationship between personal and contextual factors in determining pro-environmental behaviours (PEBs). A qualitative research approach was adopted, considering limitations with industry expertise and the need for developing an in-depth understanding of limiting factors. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted amongst construction professionals experienced in using reprocessed materials, while the thematic analysis technique was used to analyse interview findings.

Findings

Personal factors that limit the uptake of RST include negative cost and quality perceptions, risk appetite, the tendency to maintain the status-quo, limited decision-making capability and lack of skills and expertise, while contextual factors include higher prices, poor and uncertain quality, limitations with information availability, under-developed supply and drawbacks in the regulatory environment.

Originality/value

The current study is amongst the first to explore the uptake of reprocessed timber for structural uses in Australia. The findings can be utilised to create a stronger demand for RST by directly addressing personal and contextual factors that constrain construction professionals from using RST.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. 13 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

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