Stakeholders and activities in reverse supply chains for construction and demolition waste: a literature review

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) constitute a significant environmental and socio-economic challenge, particularly in developing countries where rapid urbanization and inadequate waste management infrastructure exacerbate negative impacts. The construction industry, a major contributor to global pollution, generates a lot of waste, impeding the transition to a circular economy and sustainable urban development. In this context, reverse supply chains (RSCs) present a promising approach to improve CDW management by integrating stakeholders and optimizing resource recovery. This study aimed to review the literature until July 2024 on RSC for CDW and to identify and characterize the main stakeholders involved and their typical activities. Employing a systematic literature review (SLR) methodology, an initial search identified 89 articles in the Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect databases. After the selection process, 58 articles were retained and analyzed in the subsequent stages of the SLR. The findings reveal a diverse taxonomy of stakeholders, including generators, reclaimers, and those responsible for final disposal, each fulfilling distinct roles within the RSC. Essential activities identified include integration of RSC processes, regulatory compliance, and material recovery, while notable gaps persist in physical and technological infrastructure and environmental training. Theoretically, this study organizes and systematizes fragmented knowledge on RSC for CDW, highlighting underexplored areas such as the allocation of stakeholder responsibilities. Practically, the results underscore the need for strengthened public policies and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to promote recycling and reuse. By compiling and analyzing current research, this study provides a foundation for future investigations and supports the advancement of circular economy practices in the construction industry.