Awareness of End-Of-Life Waste Management

Abstract Waste generation from demolition at the end-of-life (EOL) stage of buildings/structures forms the highest volume in construction, the most of which is thrown away, causing economic loss and depletion of natural resources. This can be saved by adopting principles of circular economy, through using building information modelling (BIM) and practicing modern construction methods/techniques (MMC). This research examined the awareness of Brunei construction industry on such EOL waste management techniques. A questionnaire survey of 132 responses from clients, contractors and consultants identified 18 significantly important factors relating to EOL waste management, with some factors are more important than some other factors. Various groups of respondents, based on their affiliation and profession, were seen to broadly agree on the level of importance of individual factors. General higher score was interpreted to have a good degree of awareness of the respondents. Five focus areas were also identified: cost reductions, technological influence, standardisation, impact of EOL wastes, and conservation of resources, with the first two and the last two to be decided in a consolidated way, as they are interrelated. This pioneering study is expected to trigger enhanced industry awareness and draw attention of the policy-makers for relevant actions.