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A model for quantifying construction waste in projects according to the European waste list
1Departamento de Construcciones Arquitectónicas I, Universidad de Sevilla, ETS de Arquitectura, IUACC, Avda. Reina Mercedes 2, 41012 Sevilla, Spain. cllatas@us.es
Waste Management (New York, N.Y.)
|March 1, 2011
Summary
This study introduces a model to estimate construction and demolition (C&D) waste during design, addressing data gaps. The model aids in waste prevention and recovery, helping meet the EU
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Waste Management Science
- Sustainable Construction
Background:
- The European Union (EU) set a 70% recovery target for construction and demolition (C&D) waste by weight in 2020.
- A significant barrier to achieving this target is the insufficient data on C&D waste generation.
- Existing methods lack comprehensive approaches for waste estimation during the crucial design phase.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel model for estimating C&D waste during the design stage.
- To facilitate waste prevention and enhance recovery rates by providing data-driven insights.
- To support technicians in managing construction waste according to EU guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Developing a systematic structure for the construction process.
- Implementing a detailed waste classification system.
- Creating analytical expressions based on technology-dependent factors for waste estimation.
- Conducting a Spanish case study involving over 20 dwellings to derive factors.
Main Results:
- The model enables the estimation of C&D waste types and quantities by building elements and project specifics.
- It allows for the identification of waste sources and the adoption of procedures to eliminate hazardous waste and reduce overall C&D waste.
- A database of waste information can be developed, applicable anywhere.
- Detailed estimation of packaging waste, remains, soil, and hazardous waste was performed and compared with existing studies.
Conclusions:
- The developed model is implementable in construction projects.
- Utilizing the model can significantly increase the potential for reducing and recovering C&D waste, potentially exceeding EU targets.
- The model provides a standardized approach to waste management and data collection in construction.
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