Construction and demolition waste management: from obligation to necessity. New trends and some tools focused on architectural projects

Abstract

The construction of a building is an activity that generates a considerable use of materials and diverse resources. Likewise, new materials and supplies are used to maintain or renovate buildings, some of which are historically reused, partially or entirely. These processes generate a series of residues or waste materials C&DW, especially at the end of the building’s useful life with its demolition. These elements are becoming increasingly important from the point of view of new approaches to the circular economy. Therefore, these elements previously discarded are now considered valuable resources. The agents involved in the building process are becoming increasingly aware of these issues. There is an evolution from the obligation imposed by the regulations toward new perspectives and trends. For that purpose, current tools will be discussed and compared, helping to understand the additional challenges and possibilities for architecture.