WASTE MANAGEMENT IN CIVIL CONSTRUCTION: THE POTENTIAL OF RED MUD AS A SUSTAINABLE STRATEGY

Abstract

Civil construction is one of the activities that consumes the most natural resources and generates solid waste, negatively impacting the environment. Among the most challenging wastes is red mud, a byproduct of bauxite processing in alumina production, which is highly alkaline and generated in large volumes. This article presents a literature review on waste management practices in civil construction, with an emphasis on sustainability and the potential reuse of red mud as an alternative raw material. The current legislation, waste classification, and possibilities for reusing red mud in the production of materials such as bricks, concrete, and synthetic aggregates are discussed. The results indicate that, despite technical challenges, the use of red mud in civil construction represents a promising strategy for promoting a circular economy, reducing the environmental impact of mining, and mitigating the use of conventional raw materials.