Assessing the effectiveness of construction and demolition waste collection and disposal service on construction sites in Kampala
Abstract
Construction waste is projected to reach 2.2 billion annually by 2025, with materials contributing 60-65% of the total waste. Construction and demolition waste accounts for 36% of overall waste, consisting of wood, concrete, and other materials. Waste management regulations require proper disposal to prevent harm to human health and the environment. Globally, waste-related incidents claim around 250,000 lives each year, with asbestos exposure posing a significant threat in India. Currently, high costs are associated with waste transportation and collection, as many individuals resort to local waste management methods that harm the environment. Construction and demolition waste pose significant environmental hazards. Factors contributing to waste generation in Uganda include design changes, lack of skills, non-compliant purchased products, inadequate storage facilities, changing orders, and severe weather conditions. In Kampala, construction sites generate 66.3-156.8 tons of waste, consisting of 79.5% wood and 19.5% concrete. The city also faces challenges in solid waste management, with only 40% being correctly handled and the rest disposed of indiscriminately, causing contamination and disease transmission. Affordable and efficient waste collection and transportation services are needed. This research aims to improve waste management practices in Kampala. The study found that implementing waste segregation systems is crucial to enhance waste collection and disposal on construction sites in Kampala. This involves separating valuable waste from non-valuable waste, promoting reuse, and reducing the overall volume of waste that needs to be disposed of. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential for adequate supervision and identifying areas for improvement. Encouraging stakeholder collaboration fosters coordination, regulatory compliance, and sustainable waste management practices.