Lin, Y H; Dai, J; Li, J and Tao, X (2026) Efficient classification and disposal management of construction waste using blockchain technology and system dynamics. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 152(2): 04025242, ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
The gap between high-generation and inefficient construction waste management presents a considerable challenge. Whereas existing information-based methods address some limitations of policy-driven methods, they continue to face issues related to accountability and data sharing. Blockchain technology offers a potential solution for the efficient classification and disposal management of construction waste (CDMCW) by providing tamper-proof records and data transparency. However, limited research has explored the mechanisms of blockchain-CDMCW integration and the methods for evaluating blockchain performance. This study aims to develop a blockchain-based approach to enhance CDMCW efficiency through three main contributions. First, a blockchain requirements model is developed based on in-depth interviews with 13 industry experts to identify the current information management problems and the requirements for blockchain integration. Second, a blockchain-based CDMCW framework is developed that includes (1) a four-layer architecture to illustrate the logic of blockchain-CDMCW integration, (2) four smart contract algorithms for secure CDMCW information management, and (3) a business process for CDMCW information exchange within a decentralized blockchain environment. Third, a system dynamics (SD) model is developed using an actual residential project to compare performance with and without the framework. System dynamics simulation results showed a 112.12% increase in waste classification, 97.27% improvement in benefits, 49.77% reduction in illegal dumping, and 13.43% reduction in cost. The results show that the approach meets effectiveness and credibility. The study's theoretical contribution is the development of a blockchain integration framework for secure data management across the CDMCW life cycle, along with a quantitative evaluation of blockchain performance using SD modeling. The study offers practical guidance for managers seeking to improve CDMCW practices and meet sustainable development demands.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | blockchain technology; classification management; construction waste; disposal management; system dynamics |
| Index terms: | data management, life cycle, data transparency, efficiency, blockchain, construction waste, modelling, smart contract, effectiveness, accountability, information exchange, face, sustainable development, interview, manager, system dynamics, residential project, integration |
| Subjects: | liability law, economic development, health safety and environment, digital technology, psychology, analytical methods, waste management, practitioner, data management, organizational analysis, data exchange, performance management, data science, data collection methods, computing systems, value management |
| Topics: | Health and Safety, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Sustainability, Legal Issues, Quality Management, Research Practice, Roles and Professions, Urban Studies, Digital Applications, Organizational Design |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here