Sustainable construction industry in Ghana focusing on recycle and re-use potentials of waste materials

Abstract

The judicious control and management of construction waste has been a clarion call for stakeholders in the construction industry of Ghana. Construction materials reuse and recycling has not gained popularity in the Ghanaian construction industry. The study sought to examine sustainable construction practices in Ghana, focusing on recycle and reuse potentials of waste materials using Ashanti and Greater Accra Regions as the study areas. A sample size of 184 contractors were selected from the two regions using stratified sampling technique out of which 129 responded. Questionnaire and interview were used as the main data collection tools for the study. The results of the study were analysed using descriptive statistics like mean scores, relative importance index and rankings. Lack of frequent visits by EPA, AMA and KMA to construction sites have not improved compliance of environmental safety practices. Lack of expertise, resource and poor awareness creation on construction materials reuse and recycling had led to its poor practices. Materials such as wood, metals, tiles, plastics and papers were not adequately utilized on site due to some contractors poor knowledge on reuse and recycling coupled with lack of financial capacity engage in recycling. Failure of both private and public companies to venture into construction waste recycling has led to its poor practices by most contractors in the two regions. It is imperative for effective awareness creation on construction materials reuse and recycling and government must put in place policies that encourage construction firms to manage their waste effectively. The right habit should be cultivated by both workers and the public towards environmental sustainability and safety.