Utilisation of certification schemes for recycled products in the Australian building and construction sector

Abstract

Recycled product certification (RPC) schemes may prove useful to ensure the desired quality and gain buyer confidence in purchasing products with recycled content (PwRC). RPCs are relatively new to the sector and have not been widely adopted. Hence, this study aims to investigate the implementation of RPC in construction projects using a multiple-case study approach. The analysis reveals that a large proportion of respondents were unaware of these schemes. The study finds that while a majority favoured RPC application, there were significant variations in responses among stakeholder groups. Moreover, the study identifies six advantages and seven significant barriers associated with the use of RPC in the sector. This study recommends leveraging education and supportive regulation for the effective implementation of RPC. In particular, the policymakers who intend to embed RPC in procurement policies for purchasing PwRC can learn about the identified loopholes and strategies and address them accordingly.