Reducing Waste At A Job Site
As the global population continues to rise, the construction and demolition (C&D) industry must keep up with constant development. From residential buildings to commercial infrastructure, the world is in a perpetual state of expansion.
However, this growth comes with a significant downside: an overwhelming amount of waste. While the generation of some waste is unavoidable, there are several strategies to significantly reduce the vast amounts produced each year. Below, we’ll outline a few methods that C&D companies of any size can implement to minimize waste and protect the environment from further harm.
Before discussing waste reduction strategies, it’s important to understand the main causes of C&D waste. A significant cause is the lack of waste reduction measures during the architectural design phase. Other key causes include design mistakes or modifications, improper handling and storage of materials, poor site management, inefficient material processing, and a lack of knowledge about local recycling and disposal options.
With these various causes and the nature of construction and demolition, it’s easy to see how waste accumulates rapidly. Fortunately, there are several strategies that C&D companies can employ to mitigate waste throughout the project. For instance, at the beginning of a project, it’s crucial to develop a detailed recycling and waste disposal plan. This plan should consider the types of materials used, the project’s scale, and the disposal options available in the area.
The plan should also include effective methods to reduce waste generation and ensure proper disposal. This might involve using specialized waste and recycling pickup services, employing roll-off dumpsters designed for C&D waste, or compacting waste with a construction-grade compactor.
Another effective strategy is to choose deconstruction over traditional demolition. Deconstruction reduces waste by allowing for the careful dismantling and reuse of materials. This approach not only conserves resources but also has environmental benefits, as it releases fewer toxic substances compared to conventional demolition practices.
These are just a few examples of the waste reduction strategies that C&D companies should consider. For more detailed information, please refer to the infographic highlighted alongside this post.
Reducing Waste At A Job Site was provided by Sourgum Waste