Analysis of construction and demolition waste in Malta : the way forward

Abstract

In the recent years, Malta experienced a sudden growth in its population and its economy. The construction industry was the main driver in providing the required means to cater for such demands through the provision of various residential buildings and infrastructural projects, resulting in an increase in the generation of C&D waste. In 2016 alone, 77% of the generated C&D waste was backfilled in the void spaces available. This research aims to identify several problems and gaps in the generation of C&D waste in Malta, barriers faced, causes of generation of C&D waste and how the industry is trying to keep it to a minimum. It also explores the possibility to shift the dependency from natural raw materials to secondary raw materials, so that the industry detach itself from the conventional methods and is more sustainable. The analysis investigated legislation, policies, strategies, standards and the role of R&D programmes at European and Maltese level, the challenges to treat end of life waste for re-use or recycle for secondary raw materials. It also analysed the experience and opinion of the interviewed stakeholders and proposal of a set of viable solutions for the local industry to improve its operations to keep generated C&D waste at a minimum. A qualitative approach was opted by carrying out semi-structured interviews. Key stakeholders, who are directly/indirectly involved in the construction industry, the generation and treatment of C&D waste, were identified after a selection exercise, following a set of criterions. Key results showed that Malta must introduce a one-stop-shop authority to cater for all issues encountered during construction works and to eliminate bureaucracy. There is also the need to shift away from the present methodologies practised and shift to concepts like design for dismantling. Schemes aimed towards re-use shall be encouraged to retrofit existing buildings to generate less carbon dioxide during its service life. The importance of a creation of a market for building products coming from secondary raw materials, will reduce the dependency on natural raw materials. This provides the opportunity for R&D programmes to be more involved in the development of innovative new building materials. Education is a key tool for all stakeholders involved in the construction industry as well as the public. Land reclamation can be another possibility, but one must see the various implications such option has on the natural environment.