5 Tips for Waste Management in the Construction Industry
The construction industry produces a lot of waste, especially demolition operations. According to Australia’s State of Waste in 2016, the construction and demolition industry accounted for 40 per cent of Australia’s total waste generation; this included waste such as bricks, concrete and timber. Additionally, a study in 2016 found that material wastage was the cause of an average of 20-30 per cent of cost overruns in construction projects.
The government has been implementing new policies for waste management. In fact, in April 2018, territory and state environment ministers came up with a new National Waste Policy to increase recycling and reduce waste management in Australia. With the amount of waste and overruns generated by the construction industry, it is important to have better waste management systems.
Minimise waste
A part of the planning process for any construction project includes coming up with different ways to reduce and even eliminate waste, wherever possible. During the planning of the construction project, project managers should identify the exact number of materials required to avoid over-consumption. Identifying the exact number needed avoids excess waste from unused materials. You can minimise waste by having your construction products shipped with minimal packaging.
Maximise waste’s potential
Another way of reducing waste is reusing and recycling materials from construction or demolition sites. Materials from construction sites that can be reused or recycled include concrete that can be broken down and used in footpaths, aluminium, steel from container and wires and untreated timber. Materials that are salvaged from demolition sites include metals, plastics, site works and vegetation, tiles and more.
Additionally, materials can also be donated or sold for use in other projects. Before selling, recycling, reusing or donating, ensure that materials and products are still of good quality or condition.
Segregate waste efficiently
Waste can be managed efficiently by introducing on-site waste storage areas. The segregation of waste can be promoted by providing bulk bags or wheelie bins that are coloured and labelled for different types of waste. Employees can also be trained to learn about the necessary segregation procedures and given rewards for complying with them.
Partnering with the right company
An efficient waste management system can be done with the help of waste specialists. They will provide and guide you with a comprehensive plan from the demolition and debris removal of waste to transporting them to landfills. They are also equipped with the right tools and equipment to get the job done easily and quickly.
Construction Waste Management and Demolition Services at Grasshopper
Here at Grasshopper, we’ve been providing waste management solutions for over three decades. Our years of experience give us the knowledge to come up with different waste management services such as managing waste and demolition debris removal in the construction industry. We value the importance of reporting, on-site efficiency, timely service and environmental responsibility.
If you want to learn more about how we can provide waste management systems for your construction site, get in touch with us here or call us on 1300 147 277.