3D Concrete Printing in Kuwait: Stakeholder Insights for Sustainable Waste Management Solutions

Hanan Al-Raqeb and Seyed Hamidreza Ghaffar ()
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Hanan Al-Raqeb: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK
Seyed Hamidreza Ghaffar: School of Engineering, University of Birmingham, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai P.O. Box 341799, United Arab Emirates

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 17, issue 1, 1-21

Abstract: Robotic construction using three-dimensional (3D) concrete printing (3DCP) offers significant potential to transform Kuwait’s construction industry, particularly in reducing waste. This study explores the feasibility of integrating 3DCP into Kuwait’s construction waste management practices by examining the perspectives of key stakeholders. Through a mixed method approach of a comprehensive literature review, a survey of 87 industry professionals, and 33 in-depth interviews with representatives from the Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW), Municipality, private sector, and the general public, the study identifies both the benefits and challenges of 3DCP adoption. The findings highlight key advantages of 3DCP, including increased construction efficiency, cost savings, enhanced design flexibility, and reduced material waste. However, several barriers, such as regulatory limitations, technical challenges in adapting 3DCP to local project scales, and cultural resistance, must be addressed. Results also indicate varying levels of stakeholder familiarity with 3DCP and existing waste management practices, underscoring the need for awareness and educational initiatives. This study makes two significant contributions: first, by providing a detailed analysis of the technical and regulatory challenges specific to Kuwait’s construction sector, and second, by offering a strategic roadmap for 3DCP integration, including regulatory reform, research into sustainable materials, and cross-sector collaboration. These recommendations aim to enhance waste management practices by promoting more sustainable and efficient construction methods by achieving SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13. The study concludes that government support and policy development will be essential in driving the adoption of 3DCP and achieving long-term environmental benefits in Kuwait’s construction industry.

Keywords: 3D concrete printing; construction waste management; Kuwait; stakeholder perspectives; regulations (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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