Optimizing Opening Positions for Net Zero Construction Waste: A Methodology for Sustainable Building Design.

Abstract

India currently generates over 277 million tonnes (MT) of solid waste each year, a number projected to soar to 387 million tonnes by 2030. A mere 20% of this waste (55 MT) is treated annually, while the remaining 80% (221 MT) ends up in landfills. The nation additionally produces 150 million tonnes of construction and demolition waste annually, with a paltry 1.5% (2.3 MT) being recycled. The Indian Green Building Council stipulates that construction waste exceeding 5% during construction is unacceptable. This paper proposes a methodology to achieve net zero construction waste by optimizing the placement of openings for Porotherm bricks. The goals include design optimization without altering the Window-to-Wall Ratio (WWR) and reducing cut block usage for Porotherm bricks by repositioning openings. The study analyzes available brick sizes and working practices, and calculates material waste for the base case, and, subsequently for the optimized case. Material waste percentages are compared, revealing significant reductions, with cut block wastage dropping from 12% to 0.6% in vertical adjustments and from 8% to 3% in horizontal adjustments. This research aligns with IGBC standards, aiding designers in achieving net zero waste in construction.