Wastewater management in the construction sector: a systemic analysis of current practice in Victoria, Australia

Abstract

Construction activities can use large amounts of water resulting in the discharge of contaminated wastewater from construction sites. However, research into wastewater management in the construction sector is scarce. The objective of this exploratory study was to understand the regulatory and practical aspects of wastewater management in the construction sector in Victoria, Australia. Exploratory interviews among 15 participants from regulatory authorities, local councils and construction firms were conducted. The interviews showed that there was a disconnect between the construction and water authorities and a lack of understanding of wastewater related regulations among construction practitioners. The findings of the interviews were used to develop a system map to illustrate how the system operates and to identify possible intervention points to optimise the system. The evidence from this study suggests that a more collaborative approach across the different agencies is vital to streamline wastewater management practices in the construction sector and the regulatory framework.

Keywords:

• Building industry
• construction
• systems thinking
• trade waste
• wastewater

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to acknowledge the School of Architecture and Built Environment, Deakin University to funding the research and in-kind support provided from Andrew Crimston, CEO for GeoSentinel Pvt Ltd (WASHBOX).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Ethics

Approval to undertake this research project has been given by the Human Ethics Advisory Group (HEAG), Faculty of Science, Engineering & Built Environment, Deakin University. Approved project number SEBE-2021-35.

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.