A dynamic decision-making model to enhance the sustainability of construction waste management strategies

The construction industry creates a large quantity of waste, making effective construction waste (CW) management strategies crucial for environmental protection and resource utilization. However, determining the optimal strategies to maximize the benefits for all stakeholders is challenging and complex. This paper develops a decision-making model using system dynamics and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). First, a system dynamics model is developed, incorporating the two main pillars of sustainability: environmental and economic perspectives. There are one causal-loop model and two stock-flow models developed to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the performance of the environmental and economic performance of CW management strategies. Based on the simulation results, an MCDA is applied to identify the optimal strategies considering these perspectives. The integration of dynamic simulation and MCDA effectively supports decision-making in CW management, providing a scientific foundation for reducing environmental impact and enhancing resource efficiency. This model offers a systematic and data-driven approach to developing CW management strategies, contributing to the advancement of sustainable construction practices. The research contributes an integrated decision-making framework that combines system dynamics and MCDA to optimize CW management strategies. It evaluates these strategies from both environmental and economic perspectives using causal-loop and stock-flow models, providing a comprehensive, data-driven approach. This framework supports informed decision-making for stakeholders, aiding in the development of sustainable practices that reduce environmental impact and enhance resource efficiency.