This study aims to comprehensively review the literature on construction and demolition (C&D) waste management to identify barriers and map future research areas for effective C&D waste management. The research employs a two-step systematic approach: a bibliometric assessment of published literature from 2002 to 2022, followed by a detailed review of significant publications. The findings reveal several research gaps categorized into seven themes: operational limitations, lack of legislative monitoring, inadequate market for recycled products, inefficient stakeholder engagement, ineffective frameworks, limited social performance research, and inadequate integration of information technology. The study highlights the need for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to address these gaps to enhance sustainable C&D waste management practices. The review also discusses current practices, barriers, and drivers in C&D waste management, emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainable criteria to balance environmental, social, and economic benefits. Additionally, it explores frameworks and models proposed to improve C&D waste management, noting the lack of research on social performance and the need for more comprehensive approaches. The study concludes by identifying current research gaps and suggesting future research directions to promote sustainable C&D waste management.This study aims to comprehensively review the literature on construction and demolition (C&D) waste management to identify barriers and map future research areas for effective C&D waste management. The research employs a two-step systematic approach: a bibliometric assessment of published literature from 2002 to 2022, followed by a detailed review of significant publications. The findings reveal several research gaps categorized into seven themes: operational limitations, lack of legislative monitoring, inadequate market for recycled products, inefficient stakeholder engagement, ineffective frameworks, limited social performance research, and inadequate integration of information technology. The study highlights the need for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to address these gaps to enhance sustainable C&D waste management practices. The review also discusses current practices, barriers, and drivers in C&D waste management, emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainable criteria to balance environmental, social, and economic benefits. Additionally, it explores frameworks and models proposed to improve C&D waste management, noting the lack of research on social performance and the need for more comprehensive approaches. The study concludes by identifying current research gaps and suggesting future research directions to promote sustainable C&D waste management.