A 4-Dimensional Strategy for Managing Construction Waste Originating during the Design Process within Architectural Design Firms in Egypt

Abstract

This study aims to develop and validate a comprehensive strategy consisting of four dimensions for effectively managing construction waste (CW) arising during the Architectural Design Process (ADP) within Architectural Design Firms (ADFs) in Egypt. To accomplish this aim, a hybrid research approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methods, was designed to address four specific objectives. Firstly, a thorough literature review was conducted to explore the topics of ADP, CW, Waste Management (WM), as well as national and international Waste Management Strategies (WMS). Secondly, three construction-based case studies from Saudi Arabia, China, and Thailand were gathered and analyzed to investigate the efficacy of identified WMS in managing CW originating during ADP. Thirdly, a survey questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to assess their understanding and utilization of WMS during ADP. Finally, the research formulated and validated a four-dimensional strategy for managing CW originating during ADP in ADFs. Data analysis revealed that ADFs possess a moderate level of knowledge regarding WMS, with limited awareness of Egyptian laws, regulations, and WMS during ADP. Among the identified WMS, "Prefabrication" emerged as the most favoured, followed by Building Information Modeling (BIM) and "on-site waste management". However, the implementation of these strategies faces several challenges. Furthermore, the research identified "preparation and briefing" as the design stage most susceptible to CW causes, with "waiting" and "defects" being the most prevalent forms of CW originating during ADP.