Environmental Impacts of C&D Waste

Environmental Impacts of Construction and Demolition Waste

• Construction and demolition waste includes waste building materials and dredging materials produced during construction, remodeling, repair, or demolition of buildings and pavements.
• Landfill leaks can occur, with plasterboard releasing hydrogen sulfide (H2S).
• Construction and demolition waste contributes to the weight and degradation of municipal waste, making it difficult to treat further, such as through composting.
• Approximately 10-20% of construction and demolition waste ends up in surface drains, causing blockages.
• Toxic elements like lead, asbestos, and radioactive materials can be present in construction and demolition waste, posing a risk of water pollution if they leak.
• The main issues in construction and demolition waste management include the absence of waste segregation at the source, the lack of recycling facilities in suitable locations, and the indifferent attitude of citizens towards waste management.
• Contractors may engage in illegal activities to save money, further complicating waste management in construction and demolition.
• Construction and demolition waste can contribute to the pollution of water bodies through the release of toxic materials.
• Plasterboard in construction and demolition waste can release hydrogen sulfide, which is harmful to the environment.
• Municipal waste becomes more difficult to treat and manage when mixed with construction and demolition waste.
• Surface drains can become clogged when construction and demolition waste is improperly disposed of.
• Construction and demolition waste may contain hazardous materials such as lead, asbestos, and radioactive substances.