Examining the critical factors that influence the success of construction and demolition waste reverse logistics operations

Abstract

The reverse logistics (RL) performance of construction and demolition waste (C&DW) differs significantly between countries. Although some countries are successfully circular, other countries are still far behind; with C&DW being largely directed to landfills or being illegally dumped. There is a lack of guidelines on the requirements for transitioning countries towards C&DW diversion, and little attention has been given to the factors that influence the success of C&DW RL and increased circularity. This study aims to develop a framework that helps in structuring and assessing the success of C&DW RL on a regional level and serves as a guide for transitioning developing countries towards implementing such operations. Since the framework should help evaluate where interventions are needed to enhance performance, the exact domains to be used and their priorities should be identified. A systematic litera- ture review was conducted to identify the critical factors that affect the outcome of RL operations. After their identification, the interrelationships between the factors and the dependence and driving power of each are examined through interpretive structural modelling. This analysis provides valuable insights and thus, allows for the establishment of a hierarchy of factors that can serve as a guide for decision-makers. The developed framework can be utilized for enhancing the efficiency of current RL operations as well as for identifying the direction of action and efforts needed to shift developing countries towards the implementation of circular economy in the sector of C&DW.