Stakeholders examine sustainable approaches to construction and demolition waste

The need for intelligent and sustainable urban planning, as well as the transformation of Mauritius' construction sector through the adoption of circular economy principles, was highlighted at a conference entitled "Rethinking the construction of tomorrow: Circular economy, myth or local reality?" organised by United Basalt Products today in Port Louis.

The event brought together more than 100 leaders and decision-makers from the construction sector, alongside international practitioners, to discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with the circular economy.

In his address at the launching ceremony, the Minister of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change, Mr Rajesh Anand Bhagwan, highlighted the strategic importance of the construction industry which remains one of the key pillars of the Mauritian economy. The sector contributes nearly 10% of the country's Gross Domestic Product and provides employment to some 120,000 people. He pointed out that the circular economy represents one of the most effective approaches for achieving sustainable development, enhancing economic resilience and protecting the environment in the context of climate change.

He further highlighted the growing environmental impact of the construction sector globally and locally. In Mauritius, he noted that between 70,000 and 100,000 tonnes of construction and demolition waste are generated annually. While only 3% of this waste is recycled and approximately 15% is disposed of at the Mare Chicose landfill, nearly 80% is illegally dumped into the environment, creating significant ecological, public health and economic challenges.

On this score, the Minister urged the stakeholders to perceive waste such as demolition debris, excavated materials, glass, metal, wood and construction fittings as valuable resources capable of being recycled, reused and reintegrated into the economy. He underscored that such an approach aligns with the National Circular Economy Roadmap 2023–2033, which identifies construction and demolition waste management as a strategic national priority.

The Minister further recalled that the Roadmap encourages businesses to adopt resource-efficient practices by promoting material recovery, repair, renovation and innovation, thereby supporting the transition towards a more circular and sustainable economy. He also outlined key Government initiatives aimed at improving waste management, including the construction of two integrated waste treatment facilities, the provision of household waste-sorting bins and the implementation of a nationwide awareness campaign to promote environmentally responsible behaviours among citizens.

In addition, he stated that recent legislative reforms enacted through the Waste Management and Resource Recovery Act and the Environment Act have further reinforced the national regulatory framework by integrating circular economy principles and Extended Producer Responsibility mechanisms, thereby supporting a more sustainable and resource-efficient approach to waste management.

Minister Bhagwan acknowledged the pivotal role of Government in creating an enabling environment for sustainable development and urged businesses to take the lead in driving innovation and adopting environmentally responsible practices. He also encouraged stakeholders in the construction sector to increase the use of renewable energy sources and recycled materials as part of efforts to promote sustainable growth and reduce environmental impacts.

01 June 2026

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Topics: Environment, Construction