Construction Waste Calculator - a Software Solution for Calculating Waste Quantities During the Demolition of Buildings

Abstract

This study addresses waste management in the construction sector, emphasizing analysis and recycling opportunities to improve waste handling. A novel demolition waste calculator was developed from analysing 23 construction projects, to estimate the volume of waste per square meter, categorize waste types by area and floor, and identify recoverable secondary raw materials. This information supports effective waste management strategies, contributing to the reduction of construction waste volumes. The approach is underpinned by circular economy principles, aligning with the Green Agenda and Serbia's industrial strategy, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable construction practices. Calculating potential construction waste volumes for buildings of known size before demolition aims to understand material behaviour as waste, its flow, and presence in various construction phases, ultimately estimating produced waste and recoverable secondary raw materials. Utilising software solutions, incorporating artificial intelligence and optimisations, facilitates quick, straightforward waste management predictions. This indirectly reveals the economic and ecological value of waste as a potential resource for further production, paving the way for strategic investment planning and the development of new recycling markets. High-confidence recycled products emerge from precise waste management based on accurately determined waste quantities and types generated from demolitions, advocating for sustainable development and resource utilisation.