Gundran Marthy James S,
Guico Dann Dexter G,
- Student, School of Civil, Environmental, and Geological Engineering, Mapúa University, Intramuros, Manila
Abstract
The construction industry is a critical driver of economic development, but it also plays a significant role in environmental degradation due to its high demand for natural resources and its substantial contribution to global waste production. In response to these environmental challenges, Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) has emerged as a comprehensive framework aimed at promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste, and lowering the overall environmental impact of construction activities. This study delves into the core principles of SMM and their application within the construction sector, focusing on strategies to enhance sustainability across various phases of a building’s life cycle, from design and material selection to construction, use, and eventual demolition. One of the key strategies explored is the adoption of circular economy principles, which encourage the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of materials to extend their lifecycle and reduce the need for virgin raw materials. This approach reduces waste, conserves resources, and decreases the overall carbon footprint of construction projects. The study also emphasizes the importance of selecting sustainable materials, such as those that are renewable, recycled, or have low environmental impacts, as a means of reducing the consumption of finite resources. Incorporating these materials not only helps in lowering the environmental costs associated with extraction and processing but also contributes to the development of more resilient and eco-friendly structures.
Keywords: Construction industry, eco-friendly structures, economic development, natural resources, sustainable materials
[This article belongs to Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management ]
Gundran Marthy James S, Guico Dann Dexter G. Sustainable Materials Management: Strategies for Reducing Waste and Enhancing Resource Efficiency in Construction. Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management. 2026; 16(01):11-23.
Gundran Marthy James S, Guico Dann Dexter G. Sustainable Materials Management: Strategies for Reducing Waste and Enhancing Resource Efficiency in Construction. Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management. 2026; 16(01):11-23. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jocetm/article=2026/view=236378
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Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management
| Volume | 16 |
| Issue | 01 |
| Received | 21/11/2025 |
| Accepted | 09/01/2026 |
| Published | 12/01/2026 |
| Publication Time | 52 Days |
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