Demolition wastes in the global construction industry: An overview of research perspective from 2001 to 2020
1Interdisciplinary Research Center for Construction and Building Materials, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia; Department of Safety Technology, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dammam Community College, 31261, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
2Department of Civil Engineering, Modibbo Adamawa University, Yola, 640231, Nigeria
3Centre for Integrated Design of the Built Environment (IDoBE), London South Bank University, School of the Built Environment and Architecture, London, SE1 0AA, UK
4King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia
J Ther Eng 2025; 11(2): 603-621 DOI: 10.14744/thermal.0000934
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Abstract

Construction Demolition and Renovation Wastes (CDRW) are produced in large amounts in many countries, with the construction industry serving as a primary catalyst for both infrastructure development and socioeconomic progress. Global calls for action have been sparked by the threats that CDRWs represent to human health, safety, and the environment. The objectives of this review are to provide a bibliometric analysis and a thorough literature assessment of DWC-related publications, key players, and scientific advancements using data from the Scopus database. The analysis shows a 20-year rise in publications of 1725%, with significant improvements in CDWR treatment, disposal, management, and valorization. These highlight how crucial sustainable practices are to the construction industry and offer a pathway for further study. Practical applications of these results include the development of more effective recycling programs and the creation of policies aimed at reducing construction waste. The findings will be useful to researchers to guide future research towards inventive approaches as well as policymakers and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices for waste management and valorization.