Exploring drivers and barriers to implement construction and demolition waste management system towards sustainability: a case study in Vietnam

Purpose Ineffective construction and demolition waste management (CDWM) highlights governance and monitoring challenges by authorities in developing countries. This study aimed to explore the drivers and barriers to implement CDWM towards sustainability, emphasizing the role of authorities as leaders in guiding and enforcing effective practices. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-method approach was deployed, including preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) for identifying initial drivers and barriers to implement CDWM, expert group discussion for refining a detailed list of drivers and barriers and semi-structured interviews with 27 stakeholders in the Vietnam construction industry for sharing experiences regarding the finalized drivers and barriers. Findings The findings revealed technology, education, society and policy as the major drivers, whereas the built environment and market were the main barriers. The authority and academia groups expressed more optimistic perspectives on drivers for CDWM, while construction firms focused on highlighting barriers. The most controversial perspectives centered on driving stakeholder engagement in CDWM. Practices adapting the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) perspective received more drivers than barriers, suggesting that the EFQM has potential for application in CDWM under the role of authorities. Originality/value This study contributes to the body of CDWM literature by exploring drivers and barriers that Vietnamese authorities should prioritize to maintain the leadership role in CDWM and suggests ways to enhance CDWM practices towards sustainability.