Abstract
The construction industry is a key sector in the development and economic growth of Ghana. However, the industry has not escaped the challenges facing other countries worldwide in terms of construction waste management in the industry. This study assesses the factors, effects, and measures of minimising construction waste, the extent of material wastage, and the environmental impact of construction waste in the construction industry of the Greater Accra Region Ghana.
The data used in this study were derived from both primary and secondary sources. The secondary data were collected via a detailed review of related literature. The primary data was collected through a questionnaire which was distributed to construction professionals. Out of the 200 questionnaires sent out, 132 were received, representing a 66% response rate. Findings revealed that project complexity, site conflicts among construction parties, challenges with transportation, and adverse weather conditions were the major factors of waste generation. Furthermore, the study also showed that the extension of time, idling resources, disputes, and the resignation of skilled employees are the effects of construction waste. The study also revealed that proper project planning and scheduling, the availability of clear information and communication channels, frequent coordination between the construction team, complete and proper design at the right time, and frequent progress meetings were the major ways of minimising construction waste. It was also revealed that water pollution, high energy consumed during extraction, and land consumption were the environmental impacts of construction waste. Finally the findings revealed that paints, plywood, roofing tiles, electrical wires, roofing sheets, and conduit pipes (electrical) were the materials that are observed as being the highest wastage materials in the construction industry.
M.Tech. (Construction Management)