Evaluating the transition towards cleaner production in the construction and demolition sector of China: A review

In our study we carry out a narrative literature review to explore the alternative C&DW management (C&DWM) strategies beyond landfilling implemented in China for the purpose of evaluating the transition towards CP. The results show that CP for C&DWM has not been yet fully implemented in construction companies and industry mainly due to legislative and economic barriers. Construction companies are also much resistant to eco-innovation due to the fact they are only profit driven and lack of awareness of environmental protection through C&DWM, as well as lack of culture towards sustainable development. A refining of the current C&DWM regulations, laws and policies as well as the support of the demand of sustainable buildings are suggested as urgent measures to improve the C&DWM by the construction companies and to put the goals of CP, CE and SC at the forefront of their business agenda. For increased sustainability the above mentioned C&DWM policies should be based on much stronger integration of economic and environmental evaluation tools, in order to overcome regulatory, know-how and business barriers to Cleaner Production within a framework of environmental stewardship that aims to preserve the environmental integrity and the ecosystem services provided to the economy and societal wellbeing.