A 10-step blueprint on how to reduce construction waste

There is research to suggest that the construction industry is responsible for 37% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, showing the significance this waste has on our planet and just how important tackling it correctly is.

With mounted urgency and awareness surrounding environmental issues, reducing waste in the industry has become more important than ever, as it strives for more sustainable practices to reduce its impact.

10 steps to reduce construction waste

In this blueprint, we explore the effective waste management strategies construction firms can implement to help achieve their overall sustainability goals.

Let’s dig in.

1) Understand the importance of waste reduction from the start

To reduce the amount of waste being generated, construction firms need to understand the nature of their waste and follow expert segregration advice outlined in sustainable waste management strategies.

Correct and efficient planning is the first and essential step for reducing waste in construction. Construction projects should begin by conducting a detailed analysis of materials, labour, and resources needed for the project. This helps clarify the buying process by confirming the exact quantities a project needs, reducing excess purchases, and subsequently limiting the volume of waste being generated. Not only is waste being reduced, there are clear financial benefits to opting for a more circular approach to construction waste.

Additionally, strategic planning for waste reduction can reveal numerous opportunities for the reuse of materials and the implementation of effective recycling practices. These efforts not only contribute to the conservation of natural resources but also play a significant role in reducing CO2 emissions, thereby supporting environmental sustainability and promoting a healthier planet.

2) Choose sustainable building materials to improve material management

The industry generates a significant volume of waste each year, especially in the UK. In fact, according to a study conducted in 2022, the UK’s Construction and Demolition sector was responsible for generating 63.0 million tonnes of non-hazardous waste, of which only 59.4 million tonnes was diverted away from landfills.

Picking more sustainable materials helps with reusing materials and reducing over-ordering, while also making structures last longer. Construction projects should get materials that are recycled or come from renewable sources and choose high-quality materials that last. This also helps the construction site make design changes with a careful material ordering process, improving inventory management and avoiding buying too much at once.

3) Implement A Construction Site Waste Management Plan

Construction waste that’s incorrectly disposed of, especially if it’s hazardous, can cause harm to wildlife, local ecosystems, and even human beings. It is therefore imperative that businesses dispose of this waste correctly, ensuring it isn’t contaminating natural resources.

Establishing a site waste management plan (SWMP) on any construction site encourages workers to segregate materials for more sustainable methods, such as reuse or recycling, rather than assume they are suitable for disposal. By providing marked areas and containers for common recyclable materials such as metal waste, cardboard waste, and plastics, projects can limit landfill contributions and improve sustainability efforts.

4) Encourage Collaboration

Effective waste management only works with collaboration. Training your workforce on waste reduction techniques empowers them to identify reusable or recyclable materials, reduce strain on natural resources, and practice efficient waste disposal. This not only boosts productivity but also promotes a culture of sustainability throughout the construction process.

5) Apply the waste hierarchy to measure environmental impact

Many construction materials can be reused or repurposed on-site or in future projects and by applying the waste hierarchy, you will prioritise routes for reuse and recycling. Consider reusing materials like bricks, tiles, and fixtures from demolition projects. This approach not only saves resources but also reduces the need for new materials, thereby lowering costs and environmental impact.

A great example of this being put into practice arrives through Reconomy’s partnership with McDonald’s, Murray & Willis, and YMCA Together. This partnership saw the introduction of a more sustainable method of waste management for furniture.

6) Reducing construction waste such as packaging

Reducing packaging waste is a straightforward and impactful method to significantly decrease the amount of waste generated on construction sites. One effective strategy is to order materials in bulk, which helps to minimise the accumulation of individual packaging that can contribute to substantial waste.

However, it is crucial to ensure that you have adequate storage space to prevent any damage to these materials. Additionally, consider sourcing materials from supply partners who prioritise the use of recyclable or minimal packaging options, which can further reduce the environmental footprint of your project.

7) Implement Just-in-Time Delivery

Ordering materials just in time for their use limits the risk of damage or deterioration from prolonged storage. This approach also limits the risk of over-ordering and the likelihood of having leftover materials. Coordinate with supply partners to ensure materials arrive when needed, limiting both waste and unnecessary site clutter.

8) Prioritise Modular and Prefabricated Construction

Modular and prefabricated construction techniques allow builders to construct components off-site, resulting in more precise measurements and less material waste. These methods are popular because of their increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ability to significantly reduce waste on-site. Also, prefabricated components can often be reusable, contributing to sustainable practices.

9) Identify opportunities for recycling programes through social value activity

Like the Reconomy example with YMCA Together, if there are leftover materials from a project, consider partnering with charities or organisations to find donation programs for reusable materials.

Many nonprofits accept building materials for their projects, contributing positively to your construction firm’s social value efforts by reducing waste and supporting community initiatives. A social value-focused strategy can also enhance a company’s reputation for sustainability and community engagement.

10) Monitor and review with professional waste services

Regular monitoring of waste management practices through a site waste management plan (SWMP) will allow your project to keep standards high and aligned against project goals. By setting benchmarks, through tracking waste reduction progress in your data analysi, your project will continue to identify areas for improvement and evolve. By capturing accurate data in reporting portals, your business can start making data-driven decisions to improve its overall waste management practices, keeping you aligned against your overall strategy.

Continuous evaluation not only improves sustainability but also helps workforces optimise future projects for even greater waste reduction.

Two workers on a site discussing how to reduce construction waste in their project.