To support the ever-growing global population, the construction and demolition (C&D) industry must engage in ongoing development. The expansion of homes, commercial spaces, and infrastructure is relentless, leading to substantial waste. C&D activities contribute to 40% of the world’s annual solid waste, with the U.S. alone generating almost 100 million tons of waste.
While some waste is unavoidable, various strategies can significantly reduce the massive amounts produced each year. This guide outlines several methods that C&D companies of any size can adopt to improve waste management and protect the environment.
Understanding the root causes of C&D waste is crucial for effective reduction. One major cause is the absence of waste reduction measures during the design phase, responsible for approximately 33% of all construction waste, according to environmental engineers. Other factors include design changes, improper material handling and storage, poor site management, and a lack of information on local recycling and disposal regulations.
Given these challenges, it’s easy to see why C&D waste accumulates so quickly. Fortunately, there are several strategies to mitigate this issue. Developing a detailed recycling and waste management plan at the start of the project is essential. This plan should include methods for reducing waste and proper disposal practices, such as using specialized waste collection services, roll-off dumpsters, and compactors.
In addition, opting for deconstruction instead of traditional demolition can be a more sustainable choice. Deconstruction allows for the careful removal and reuse of materials, reducing overall waste and environmental impact compared to conventional demolition practices, which often release harmful dust and metals.
These are just a few examples of waste-reducing strategies. For additional information, please consult the attached resource.
Reducing Waste At A Job Site was provided by Sourgum Waste