Reverse supply chain conceptual model for construction and demolition waste

Abstract

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) substantially contributes to environmental degradation because of its intrinsic characteristics of fast and high generation volume, low recycling rate, and low revenue margins. A systemic problem is that recycling facilities are not usually a part of a reverse supply chain (RSC) specific for CDW. This makes the recovery process costs prohibitive, especially where companies are unable to receive and process large volumes of waste continuously. This paper presents a systematic analysis of the extant literature and utilizes the results accrued to develop a conceptual RSC model for CDW. In so doing, the research seeks to provide clarity on this phenomenon, while simultaneously stimulating wider academic discourse and further research endeavours. A mixed philosophies epistemological design was adopted using both interpretavism and constructivism to undertake a qualitative systematic analysis of the literature. A process diagram was produced to represent the conceptual model (CM) and thematically group the nodes into three key swim lanes that delineate the boundaries between distribution, manufacturing, and sourcing and warehousing processes. Within each swim lane, stakeholders were incorporated as key actors. A further layer of nuanced complexity was added to illustrate the key actors involved in the process, government strategies, and activity flow paths. This novel CM offers both practical and theoretical contributions to existing knowledge and signposts a future research direction. Such work will demystify reverse logistics for managing CDW, and assist government policy-makers to develop informed policies that reduce the negative environmental impact of construction activities.