A Review of Agricultural Waste Utilization in Civil Engineering: Challenges and Opportunities in Nigeria
Amanda Ugochi Eziefula, Onyowoicho Cynthia Ohagoro, Yusuf Mohammed Jamiu
Abstract
The construction industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental degradation, driven by the high demand for conventional building materials such as cement, aggregates, and steel. In response to these challenges, the utilization of agricultural waste as a sustainable alternative in civil engineering has gained significant attention. Agricultural waste, including rice husks, cassava peels, palm kernel shells, and other by-products, holds immense potential for reducing the environmental footprint of the construction sector. This review explores the various types of agricultural waste, their applications in construction materials such as concrete, bricks, road pavements, and insulation, as well as the technological, economic, and social challenges faced in utilizing these materials in Nigeria. While significant strides have been made in the development of agricultural waste-based construction materials, challenges such as variability in material properties, limited processing technologies, inadequate research, and lack of regulatory standards hinder their widespread adoption. Additionally, the high initial investment costs for recycling facilities and the lack of government incentives contribute to the slow commercialization of these materials. Through case studies from Nigeria and international examples, the paper illustrates the potential for agricultural waste to be effectively integrated into construction practices. The successful use of agricultural waste in civil engineering can significantly reduce the reliance on non-renewable resources, lower construction costs, and promote sustainability in the industry. The paper concludes by offering policy recommendations, industry strategies, and research directions that can facilitate the adoption of agricultural waste-based materials in Nigeria, contributing to a more sustainable and circular construction economy.
Keywords
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