Environmental Effects of Road Construction Waste

Abstract

This research work investigates the various waste streams generated during road construction and their effect on environment. The method employed in this research work is categorized into waste type generated on construction site using reconnaissance surveys, data collection and data analysis methods. Four construction project sites in Minna, Nigeria, were used with the aim that these sites will provide a platform to acquire valuable data. It was discovered that mortar or concrete waste and wood waste has the highest percentage of 22% to 39% and asphalt has about 4 % waste and this was largest percentage of waste generated and this was mainly due to the human error, the use of inadequately trained and unskilled labour. The study however made case for adequate attention and concentration towards improving effective waste management by implementing proper waste management and disposal systems and encouraging the use of recycled materials in road construction. This will greatly reduce the cost of construction, increase efficiency, reduce work time and replenish the earths rapidly depleting natural resources used in construction like wood and bitumen.