Waste from Building Booms: Dhaka's Hidden Treasure

The Greater Dhaka area has seen a massive boom in building and tearing down structures over the past 50 years. This rapid urban growth has led to a significant increase in construction and demolition waste. This waste is often overlooked, but it presents a unique opportunity. First, let's talk about the scale of the problem. A detailed look at 21 construction sites and 12 demolition sites in Greater Dhaka revealed some staggering numbers. For every square meter of floor area demolished, about 463. 67 kilograms of waste is generated. For construction, it's roughly 90. 31 kilograms per square meter. These numbers might seem abstract, but they add up quickly. When projected across the eight districts of Greater Dhaka, the annual waste amount is substantial. So, what can be done with all this waste? The good news is that much of it can be recycled. This isn't just about cleaning up; it's about creating value. By recycling construction and demolition waste, there's potential for significant economic benefits. This is not just a short-term gain. The benefits can be realized over the years, from 2022 to 2030, if the right steps are taken. The challenge lies in turning this potential into reality. This requires action from various stakeholders and policymakers. They need to come up with practical plans and laws to make sustainable waste management a reality in the construction industry. This isn't just about dealing with waste; it's about building a more sustainable future for Greater Dhaka.