In the construction industry, managing waste is a priority in terms of environmental concerns and an important factor in driving project efficiencies and profitability. With millions of tonnes of material waste being generated annually, the sector faces intense scrutiny from environmentalists and stakeholders to adopt more sustainable practices. We take a closer look at what a proactive approach to minimising waste on construction sites involves.
Planning and design
Effective waste reduction begins in the planning and design phases. Any strategic decisions made at this stage will greatly influence the typical volume of waste generated.
Creating a comprehensive plan will not only set out clear objectives – including a useful framework for the types of waste generated (plus projected amounts) and guidance for disposal – it also ensures that waste reduction is a priority from the start.
Focusing on design efficiency by selecting materials and construction methods that inherently reduce waste can also have a huge impact. This could involve deciding to standardise dimensions, applying modular construction techniques, or opting for deconstruction rather than demolition.
Material management
Effective material management affects procurement, storage and recycling.
Selecting materials with a lower environmental impact and ensuring accurate quantity estimation will help minimise excess and waste. And proper storage and handling methods prevent damage and material deterioration, further mitigating the risk of having to scrap any products.
Arranging for materials to be delivered as close as possible to when they are needed also reduces the risk of damage and/or loss.
Buying in bulk keeps packaging waste to a minimum. But it’s important to maintain accurate records of on-site materials. This not only prevents over-ordering, it also highlights any surplus materials which could be used more efficiently.
Remember to factor recycling schemes into your waste management plan, as they divert huge amounts of waste from landfills. Some suppliers will take back unused materials or offer recycling services.
On-site practices
Efficient on-site practices also lead to a reduction in construction waste.
Using techniques and tools that minimise material off-cuts is a great starting point. Setting up an easy-to-follow waste segregation system with separate containers for different types of waste will also help to get everyone on board with the importance of sustainable practices. These are all contributing factors in achieving a company’s sustainability objectives.
Innovative technologies and solutions
Leveraging technology and design innovation can offer novel solutions to waste challenges.
Incorporating advanced software makes material estimation more accurate and prevents over-purchasing. And similarly, material tracking software helps to monitor material use and waste generation in real time.
Introducing prefabricated and modular precision-manufactured components not only streamlines the building process but also significantly reduces the generation of on-site waste.
Managing and minimising construction waste is an ongoing process that will evolve as technology advances. Effective material management requires a comprehensive approach that spans the entire lifecycle of a project, from planning and design through to procurement, usage and disposal. If you have introduced an innovative recycling solution to enhance project efficiency and sustainability, then please get in touch – we’d love to hear about it.