Integrating automation into construction waste quantification: A review of digital innovations for sustainable resource management

The construction sector is a major generator of solid waste, with construction and demolition waste (CDW) posing significant challenges to sustainable resource management. Accurate quantification is vital for achieving circular economy and waste reduction goals; however, traditional estimation methods remain manual, fragmented and inconsistent. This state-of-the-art review synthesizes developments in automation and digital technologies that are transforming CDW quantification and management. A total of 125 peer-reviewed articles published between 1993 and 2025 were systematically analysed to identify trends, methods and emerging tools. Advances across artificial intelligence, computer vision, building information modelling and the Internet of Things are categorized, focusing on automated waste recognition, volumetric estimation and real-time monitoring. Persistent challenges, including limited dataset diversity, model generalization, interoperability and implementation cost, are critically examined. By linking technological innovation with practical waste management, this review highlights how automation can enhance efficiency, traceability and sustainability in the construction industry’s transition towards circular practices.