Construction and Demolition waste (C&D) presents not only an unsightly urban issue but also poses health risks and the potential for severe environmental disasters. It is approximated that India generates a staggering 550 million tons of C&D waste annually, though estimates fluctuate between a range of 10 million to 650 million tons. This tutorial aims to offer an in-depth exploration of the circular economy principles, India’s waste management regulations, the current landscape, and global best practices.

The module will intricately detail the process of obtaining clean aggregates from demolition waste. It will also perform a thorough comparison between Indian specifications for the use of recycled aggregates and standards like Euro standards and other international benchmarks. Additionally, the significance of third-party testing and certification will be emphasized, encompassing the evaluation of crucial parameters at necessary intervals to establish the efficient utilization of recycled aggregates in concrete.

The applications for recycled aggregates and the necessary policy frameworks for effective implementation of C&D waste management in urban centers will be addressed. Various business models pertinent to C&D waste recycling, including their individual financial feasibility, will be prominently featured. Through comprehensive examination, the tutorial will delve into a variety of projects that employ recycled aggregates, underscoring the challenges encountered and the role of recycled aggregates in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and enhancing the sequestration process. Given the dynamic advancements in waste management and the retrieval of cement paste from recycled aggregates, this topic remains incredibly contemporary and pertinent. It holds relevance not only for policy makers but also for engineers actively involved in the construction industry.