Construction and Demolition Waste Management in a Developing Country: A Nigerian Scenario

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) is an important waste composition receiving attention from policymakers and researchers globally due to the negative impacts associated with its management. This paper explores construction and demolition waste management (CDWM) in Nigeria with a view to understanding CDWM’s practices as perceived by the policymakers, waste managers and other stakeholders in the construction industry. A descriptive qualitative research design was adopted with data obtained from secondary sources. Findings revealed that CDWM is not a recent phenomenon in Nigeria but there is a renewed interest in it in the last decade. Findings also revealed that CDW does not receive the deserved attention from the constituted authority and stakeholders in the construction industry. While there is a low level of awareness regarding the negative impacts of CDW on public health and the environment, most construction firms and contractors have resorted to unsustainable disposal methods of open dumping, burning, and landfilling. Further findings revealed the potential for sustainable CDWM of reusing, recycling, and composting. Finally, the paper put forward recommendations that would chart a course for sustainable CDWM in Nigeria if implemented.

Leveraging Waste Recycling as a Gateway to a Green Economy in Nigeria

The call for a transition to a green economy has been a recurring issue in Nigeria for over a decade. However, there was limited focus on the relationship between waste recycling and the green economy in previous studies. This study explores the nexus between waste recycling and the green economy, examining how waste recycling can be leveraged to foster a green economy in Nigeria. A descriptive qualitative approach was used, and relevant literature from secondary data sources and context were analyzed. The results indicate that waste recycling has not been fully embraced in Nigeria, especially at the household level. Therefore, waste recycling is primarily driven by the informal sector and entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the study reveals the diverse opportunities available through implementing a green economy. It recommends a green economy policy that promotes equity, economic incentives for household waste recycling, and support for entrepreneurs interested in partnering with the government