Investigation into strategies for recycling construction waste in Ireland

Caitríona De Paor, Blaine Whitby

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

Abstract

The construction industry is a significant source of waste of single-use materials in Ireland, contributing to the growing demand for landfills and recycling centres. This problem is exacerbated by the generalisation that certain areas within Ireland contain naturally occurring pyrite or mica in the soil, which is detrimental to structures built with materials containing these chemicals.
Since approximately 2007, Mica and Pyrite have been identified as the leading indicators of buildings around the North Dublin area cracking uncontrollably, causing some to become uninhabitable and most to be condemned. This study critically reviewed national and international legislation to understand the current state of construction and demolition
(C&D) waste management in Ireland and abroad. The investigation also delved into methods for testing and categorising C&D waste containing harmful materials like pyrite and mica, focusing on safe reuse.
Material from various locations around a test site was tested and categorised. Potential reuse options, such as the provision of targeted drainage, impermeable barriers, or encapsulation of the material for use as backfill, were assessed using a multi-criteria analysis that included a review of costs and environmental impacts. A carbon footprint calculator was also used to assess the cost of recycling, its environmental benefits, and the reduction in carbon associated with recycling versus disposal.
Original languageEnglish (Ireland)
Pages336
Number of pages341
Publication statusPublished - 30 Aug 2024
EventCivil Engineering Research in Ireland 2024 - University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
Duration: 29 Aug 202430 Aug 2024
https://researchrepository.universityofgalway.ie/entities/publication/a20c47af-9b4f-4b30-b534-9d639565d920

Conference

ConferenceCivil Engineering Research in Ireland 2024
Abbreviated titleCERI 2024
Country/TerritoryIreland
CityGalway
Period29/08/2430/08/24
Internet address

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Investigation into strategies for recycling construction waste in Ireland'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this