Benefits Realization and Application Challenges of Green Concrete Towards Sustainability in Saudi Arabian Construction

Abstract

In recent years, Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emission has been increased by 22% in Saudi Arabia, and the building construction sector is one of the major contributors to increased CO2. This necessitates Saudi Arabia's introduction of energy efficiency and sustainability in the construction sector. Green Concrete (GC) has recently gained popularity in the Kingdom as it is environmentally friendly and produced from waste and residual materials. However, every new technology faces application challenges that can stymie its adoption in the industry. As a result, this study aims to determine the potential benefits and application challenges of using GC technology in Saudi Arabian's construction industry. This study conducted a comprehensive literature review of the subject followed by a questionnaire survey to field practitioners and interviews with professional experts to determine the potential benefits and application challenges of GC technology. In addition, an analysis of GC trail test documents implemented in a local project and a meeting with the project team were also conducted to determine the trial test's advantages and implementation challenges. The major benefits identified in this study are reduced energy use, waste material reuse, CO2 reduction, natural resource conservation, and reduced landfill numbers, while the major implementation challenges identified in this study are discouraging building codes and a lack of information and understanding of GC benefits. Subsequently, recommendations for government agencies, private sector businesses, and concrete suppliers are provided to improve the benefits of GC, resolve application challenges, and promote and accelerate its adoption in Saudi Arabia.