This paper presents observations and experiences of emergency construction and demolition (C&D) waste management following the great Kanshin-Awaji earthquake on 17 January 1995 in Japan. The latest experiences of the demolition of war-damaged buildings and the recycling of rubble materials in the reconstruction of Beirut, Lebanon, and Mostar (Bosnia), will be mentioned briefly. The presentation will be followed by a survey of the general principles of disaster waste management and a presentation of options and barriers to recycling and re-use of materials, including an assessment of environmental and economic aspects. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.