Challenges of recycling construction and demolition waste in low- and middle-income countries: evidence from Kazakhstan

Construction and demolition (C&D) waste presents a major environmental challenge in lower- and middle-income countries such as Kazakhstan, where recycling rates are critically low despite the high recyclability potential of waste materials. This study identifies and prioritises the most significant barriers to effective C&D waste recycling in Kazakhstani construction firms. A quantitative survey of 74 construction industry experts was conducted, and 21 challenges were ranked using the Relative Importance Index (RII). The findings reveal the most critical barrier is the poor condition of existing waste recycling infrastructure (RII = 0.853), followed by a lack of employee awareness of environmental consequences (RII = 0.805) and a lack of employee training (RII = 0.803). The research highlights the significance of a dual-strategy approach: it underscores the urgent need for collaborative government and corporate investment in physical recycling facilities while also emphasising the critical role of firm-level initiatives to build human capital through targeted training. These findings provide a clear evidence-based roadmap for policymakers and construction firms to advance the circular economy in Kazakhstan and similar contexts.