A simulation model using system dynamic method for construction and demolition waste management in Hong Kong

Purpose – As construction and demolition(C&D) waste is one of the main solid waste generators in Hong Kong, its impact on the environment has become an imperative issue to the involved stakeholders. Although, C&D waste management has been receiving increasing attention from stakeholders and researchers since the early 1980s, how to manage C&D waste efficiently and effectively is, however, still in its early stages. Past research on C&D waste management has mainly focused on the separate aspects of waste management including waste reduction, reuse, recycle and response. A new approach is made in this paper to improve C&D waste management. Design/methodology/approach – A simulation model is developed based on system dynamics methodology for strategic planning of C&D waste in Hong Kong by incorporating the relationship of major activities inherently involved in C&D waste management. Findings – Finds that such an integrated simulation model will have the potential to assist decision makers and practitioners to better understand the complexity of information and processes involved in managing C&D waste throughout a project's life-cycle. Originality/value – This has shown that management of C&D waste can be facilitated by means of system dynamics to provide a better understanding of the dynamic interactions and interdependencies of the key areas of the C&D waste management process.