Waste Management in the Construction Industry in Dubai—UAE

Abstract

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) focuses on achieving sustainable development. One of the main factors that has to be taken into consideration is the construction waste management techniques. This study focused on exploring the causes behind waste generation in construction sites and the effective techniques implemented to manage the construction waste at construction sites in the UAE. Also, it addresses the challenges that may face implementing effective strategies. This research focused on qualitative research methods to reach the findings. Initial site visits to Four construction projects were followed by interviews targeting contractors’ viewpoints on waste causes, waste reduction strategies, and their associated challenges. The data have been analysed using NVIVO software as a tool to conduct a thematic analysis approach. The findings highlighted that material waste stems from factors such as limited awareness, excess off-cuts, improper planning and coordination and rework due to changes in the design. Commonly used waste management practices include proper material storage, landfilling, reuse of some materials and just-in-time material delivery. Areas like waste coordinating and planning and segregation require enhanced efficiency to meet waste management and reduction objectives. Additionally, the study revealed that contractors mainly view waste reduction as a financial concern aimed at cost reduction, often overlooking the environmental impacts associated with waste management.