End-of-life waste management: perceptions of Brunei construction industry stakeholders

Purpose This research investigated the perceptions of Brunei construction industry stakeholders regarding end-of-life (EOL) waste management supported by circular economy principles and integration of building information modelling (BIM). Design/methodology/approach A survey collected 132 responses. Cronbach’s alpha examined the reliability of the data. Normality tests suggested parametric analysis. The one-sample t-test examined the consistency of sample means with population means, ANOVA tested agreement of various respondent groups on importance levels of individual factors. Factor analysis surfaced a few broad components. Findings The study identified 18 significant factors. While relatively high awareness of EOL waste management is observed, adoption remains low. The most agreed-upon factors were the lack of information/guidance and practicing 3R methods (i.e. reduce, reuse and recycle) and modern methods of construction (MMC). Clients predominantly acknowledged the benefits of the deconstruction process and its economic advantages, while consultants and contractors were more optimistic towards utilising MMC and BIM. Five interrelated broad components emerged from factor analysis exercise: cost reductions, technological influence, standardisation, impact of EOL wastes and conservation of resources, suggesting a consolidated approach of actions. Overall results indicate that existing regulations are ineffective, requiring devising and/or providing more training, awareness generation and practitioner supportive guidance and policy. Originality/value Studies on EOL waste management are limited, particularly in Brunei. Despite existing sustainability policies, specific guidelines for EOL waste management are lacking. This pioneering study triggers enhanced industry awareness, informs policymakers and lays the groundwork for further research, marking it as the first of its kind in Brunei.