CONSTRUCTION WASTE MANAGEMENT IN UAE: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY

Abstract

In 2016, 9.68 million tons of solid waste were generated in Abu Dhabi alone where 67.8% was sent to dumpsites and landfills. In the same year, the construction and demolishing (C&D) industry produced 47% of the non-hazardous waste. This research aims to investigate the C&D waste management in UAE’s construction industry, specifically in Abu Dhabi based on (a) official resources identifying authorized entities, regulations, implementation guidelines, and causes behind waste generation in UAE’ C&D industry; and (b) unstructured interviews with construction professionals in Abu Dhabi revealing the waste management consideration process, enhancement methods, professionals’ responsibilities and views toward the topic. While Abu Dhabi’s sustainability framework (Estidama) requires a submittal of C&D Waste Management Plan (CDWMP) prior to any construction activity asking for a minimum of 30% waste diversion from landfills, relevant literature highlighted awareness as an effective factor in C&D management. Interviews for this study have shown that a lack of awareness is still affecting the C&D waste management and control negatively. Interviewees have also contributed in understanding the waste management consideration process, enhancement methods, professionals’ responsibilities and views toward the topic highlighting that implementation practices seem to seek Estidama certification but not a sustainable environment.