A Longitudinal Analysis of Construction Waste Recycling Performance in Peninsular Malaysia (2017–2024) Through Digital Monitoring Indicators

Abstract

The construction sector in Malaysia is a major contributor to overall waste generation, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable waste management practices. Therefore, this study examines the longitudinal performance of Peninsular Malaysia’s construction and demolition (C&D) waste management system from 2017 to 2024, focusing on the effectiveness of digital monitoring tools in assessing recycling and reuse outcomes. The data for this study were obtained from the Construction Waste Monitoring System (CWMS), administered by the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp). The study analyses trends across 11 Peninsular states and 2 federal territories. Key performance indicators, including the Recycling to Generated (CG), Reuse to Generated (RG), and Landfill to Generated (LG) ratios, were employed to evaluate waste diversion efforts. Findings indicate intermittent rather than sustained improvements in recycling and reuse, particularly in urban regions, alongside a continued heavy reliance on landfilling, with LG ratios frequently exceeding 80%. State-level disparities and implementation challenges, such as voluntary reporting, limited infrastructure, and enforcement capacity constraints, further hinder progress. The study concludes that while digital systems offer valuable transparency and accountability, they have not yet translated into consistent improvements in diversion performance. Recommendations include mandating digital reporting, offering performance-based incentives, expanding recycling infrastructure, and institutionalising digital indicators within compliance frameworks. These measures are crucial to supporting Malaysia’s transition toward a circular economy in the construction sector.