Abstract
Due to its contribution to economic and social growth, the building industry is one of the most critical sectors for sustainable development. However, the sector generates excessive construction and demolition (C & D) waste contributing to contamination and degradation. Consequently, there is a move towards more sustainable ways to manage construction waste. In addition, waste raises concerns due to its impact on human life. For instance, a waste landslide has been stated to lead to the death and displacement of people due to disposal regulations. BIM has been cited to minimise construction waste and promote sustainable building practices.
Additionally, construction waste management helps divert waste by reducing the waste that could end up in landfills during construction projects. This study established building information modelling challenges and opportunities in construction waste management. The study aimed to compare traditional-designed projects and BIM-designed projects in terms of waste Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Seven (7) participants working in construction companies based in South Africa in the Gauteng province. A phenomenology design was used for this study. The type of phenomenology used in this study was descriptive phenomenology. This was to study participants’ experiences in BIM-designed projects and interpret the meaning of their responses. In addition, construction projects were identified as case studies in which the participants on the identified case studies were interviewed.. The responses were then analysed using content analysis. In addition, data was analysed through the description of the case and themes for the case. This was done by identifying issues within each case and then looking for common themes that transcend the cases. The findings were compiled to offer guidance on reducing construction waste to achieve sustainable construction methods. Findings reveal that concrete and steel have a high form of wastage. In addition, waste results from a lack of accurate information, which can be improved using BIM. Findings also reveal that BIM can be used to design out waste when implemented during the early stages of the project. BIM can enhance the design's visualization, making it easier to manage the project. However, BIM is also demanding and expensive. In addition, a framework was developed. Using the developed framework when using BIM to manage waste during construction projects will minimise waste. It is recommended that construction firms should invest in skills development and the costs involved for BIM to be used throughout construction stages for waste management. This means that BIM can be used for planning for waste minimisation. Planning for waste can include identifying and planning for reusing and recycling materials . Furthermore, the developed framework may be used for managing construction waste throughout the entire life cycle of a building or facility in South Africa. This study examined the opportunities and challenges of BIM for managing waste in a construction project. Future studies could focus on examining how BIM can be used to identify materials for future projects.
Keywords: Building Information Modelling, waste management, waste minimisation, construction industry.