A bibliometric analysis of construction and demolition waste research: trends, sustainability and environmental implications

Construction and demolition (C&D) waste management has become a growing global concern due to its environmental impact and resource inefficiency. This study provides a comprehensive overview of research trends, key contributors and thematic developments in C&D waste literature from 1996 to 2025. A dataset of 763 journal articles was analysed using bibliometric methods, including co-authorship, citation and keyword co-occurrence analyses, conducted via VOSviewer. The study identified four major thematic clusters representing key research areas: waste management practices, concrete and material properties, sustainability in construction materials and environmental risk mitigation. Results reveal that publication activity has increased significantly since 2018, with leading contributions from China, Australia and the United States. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers and researchers, highlighting opportunities for advancing recycling technologies, improving waste management frameworks and fostering a circular economy (CE) in construction. This study provides an empirical foundation for future interdisciplinary research and policy interventions promoting sustainable construction and waste reduction.