Utilization of Locally Available Waste-Based Materials in Sustainable Construction: A Kerala Perspective

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable development has led to exploring alternative construction materials. In Kerala, a region marked by high construction activity and growing waste generation, utilizing locally available waste-based materials presents a promising opportunity. This report examines the potential of such materials, like fly ash, plastic waste, construction and demolition (C&D) debris, coconut shells, and quarry dust, for sustainable construction. It evaluates their physical properties, environmental impact, and economic viability through a comprehensive review and case studies.

Introduction

Background:
Kerala’s construction sector is rapidly growing but heavily depends on conventional materials like cement, bricks, and sand, which are environmentally harmful. Simultaneously, the state generates large volumes of waste, especially from construction and demolition (C&D) activities, which often go unused.

Objective:
The study aims to explore the potential of using locally available waste materials—such as plastic waste, fly ash, coconut shells, and C&D debris—in construction to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.

Methodology:
It includes literature reviews, field surveys, expert interviews, and material testing (e.g., compressive strength, durability), followed by cost and environmental impact analysis using real-time data.

Case Studies:

1. Plastic Paver Blocks (Thrissur): Produced from recycled plastic waste, used in sidewalks and parks; strong, durable, and cost-effective.

2. C&D Recycling Plant (Kochi): Processes debris into recycled aggregates for roads, reducing landfill use and quarrying.

3. Coconut Shell Concrete (Palakkad): Trials using coconut shells in place of coarse aggregates show promise for lightweight construction.

Key Findings:

• Mechanical Properties: Fly ash bricks and plastic blocks are durable and suitable for non-load-bearing structures. Coconut shell concrete is lighter but less strong—ideal for low-load applications.

• Economic Benefits: Waste-based materials offer 15–20% cost savings over traditional materials.

• Environmental Impact: These materials reduce landfill waste, pollution, and resource depletion while lowering carbon emissions.

• Durability: Generally good in Kerala's climate, though long-term studies are needed.

• Challenges: Include variability in waste quality, lack of standards, limited awareness, and need for better processing infrastructure.

• Policy and Awareness: Stronger policies, education campaigns, and incentives are needed to promote adoption.

• Scaling Potential: With government-industry-community collaboration and better technology, waste-based construction can be scaled statewide.

• Carbon Footprint: Preliminary data suggests a lower carbon footprint; further life cycle assessments are recommended.

Conclusion

This study shows that waste materials found locally in Kerala can be used in building in a way that is good for the environment and saves money. These materials can replace traditional ones like clay bricks and natural stones without causing harm to the surroundings. Using waste materials in construction helps reduce damage to nature and supports a circular economy, where waste is reused instead of thrown away. This approach is a smart way to make building more sustainable and eco-friendlier in Kerala.

References

[1] Bureau of Indian Standards. (1992). IS 1077: Specification for Common Burnt Clay Building Bricks. BIS, New Delhi. [2] Central Pollution Control Board. (2020). Guidelines on Utilization of Construction and Demolition Waste. CPCB, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, India. [3] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. (2018). Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Guidelines. Government of India. [4] Kerala State Pollution Control Board. (2021). Circular on Sustainable Waste Management Practices in Kerala. KSPCB, Thiruvananthapuram. [5] Kumar, S., & Gupta, R. (2019). Recycling plastic waste into construction materials: A case study from Kerala. Waste Management, 85, 453-461. [6] Nair, S., & Thomas, T. (2020). Utilization of C&D waste for road construction: Insights from Kochi, Kerala. Journal of Environmental Engineering, 146(5), 04020034.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Vishnugopal G S, Ms. Sony J V M E. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.