PSI - Issue 64

Rahma Dhemaied et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 64 (2024) 343–351 Rahma Dhemaied/ Structural Integrity Procedia 00 (2019) 000 – 000

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7.2. Resource conservation

The utilization of recycled concrete aggregates in pavement projects also contributes to the conservation of natural resources and the diversion of construction and demolition waste from landfills. (Gálvez-Martos et al., 2018) found that incorporating 30% RCA in concrete mixes can reduce the demand for natural aggregates by up to 21%. Coupled with the ability to fully recycle pavement materials at the end of their life, this leads to a more circular and sustainable use of aggregate resources. Additionally, (Marinković et al., 2010) estimated that using RCA can reduce the amount of construction and demolition waste sent to landfills by 40-60%, providing significant environmental benefits by avoiding the disposal of this waste stream. 7.3. Regional and Contextual Considerations The environmental advantages of RCA can be more pronounced in certain regional or contextual situations. (Yeheyis et al., 2013) found that in regions with limited natural aggregate supplies, the use of RCA can result in 15 25% lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to NA. This is due to the reduced transportation impacts associated with locally sourced recycled aggregates. Similarly, (Tam et al., 2018) demonstrated that the environmental performance of RCA is more favorable in areas with high population densities and construction activity, where the availability of waste concrete for recycling is greater. 8. Stakeholder Engagement and Perception The successful integration of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) into pavement construction requires active engagement and acceptance from various stakeholders, including construction contractors, transportation agencies, regulatory bodies, and the public. Recent research has highlighted the importance of addressing stakeholder perceptions and concerns to facilitate the widespread adoption of this sustainable pavement material. A study by (Attri et al., 2022) found that the perceived technical performance and durability of RCA-based pavements were primary factors influencing contractors' willingness to use this recycled material. The researchers emphasized the need for comprehensive demonstration projects and technical data to showcase the long-term viability of RCA and alleviate industry skepticism. (Zhang et al., 2019) further noted that involving stakeholders early in the planning and decision-making process can help to identify and address their specific requirements and concerns. In addition to technical considerations, the environmental and economic benefits of using RCA in pavements have also been shown to influence stakeholder perceptions. (Yaro et al., 2023) highlighted the importance of effective communication strategies to highlight the resource conservation, waste diversion, and cost saving advantages of RCA, which can positively sway the perceptions of both public and private sector stakeholders. Moreover, the development of clear policies, standards, and certification schemes has been identified as a crucial factor in building stakeholder confidence and facilitating the widespread acceptance of RCA. (Behera et al., 2014) emphasized the need for harmonized regulations and guidelines at the national and international levels to provide a consistent framework for the utilization of RCA in pavement projects. By actively engaging with stakeholders, addressing their technical and sustainability-related concerns, and promoting the benefits of RCA through targeted communication and demonstration efforts, practitioners and researchers can enhance the likelihood of successful RCA implementation in pavement construction (Muniz De Farias et al., 2019). 9. Community and social impact The utilization of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) in pavement construction can have significant social and community-level impacts that extend beyond the technical and environmental considerations. Recent research has explored these broader societal implications. A study by (Yeheyis et al., 2013) found that the use of RCA in road infrastructure projects can create employment opportunities and support local economic development, particularly in regions with limited natural aggregate resources. The researchers noted that the establishment of RCA production facilities and associated supply chains can generate direct and indirect jobs within the construction and recycling industries, benefiting the surrounding communities. Moreover, the incorporation of RCA in pavement projects can