Awareness of recycling practice in construction waste management among g7 contractors in the east coast of Malaysia

The construction industry in Malaysia plays a vital role in economic development but also contributes significantly to environmental degradation through construction waste. Despite the promotion of recycling as part of the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) framework, Malaysia's construction recycling rate remains low at 5%, attributed to challenges such as limited infrastructure, resource constraints, and low awareness among contractors, particularly G7 contractors. This study evaluates the awareness of recycling practices among G7 contractors in East Coast, Malaysia, and identifies gaps and barriers in their understanding and implementation of recycling. A quantitative method was employed, with structured questionnaires distributed to 50 from 215 contractors (G7) registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). The data were analyzed using SPSS to assess awareness levels, the relationship between firm size and recycling awareness, and differences in awareness among contractors. Results revealed that 9 out of 11 recyclable materials were recognized, with paper (mean = 4.32), brick (4.22), and ferrous metals (4.18) being the most acknowledged. A positive correlation (r = 0.35, p < 0.05) was found between firm size and recycling awareness, indicating that larger contractors exhibit higher awareness due to greater resources and sustainability initiatives. Smaller contractors faced barriers such as financial constraints and lack of knowledge. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, including enhanced training, government incentives, and improved infrastructure, to bridge the gap between large and small contractors. Raising awareness of existing policies and providing tailored support can significantly improve recycling adoption, contributing to sustainable construction waste management in Malaysia.