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.

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) Plan for 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 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.

Additionally, planning for waste reduction can uncover opportunities for material reuse and recycling.

2) Choose Sustainable Building Materials

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.

Choosing sustainable and durable materials not only reduces waste being generated but also enhances the lifespan of a structure. Construction projects should procure materials that are made from recycled or renewable sources and opt for high-quality materials that last longer.

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

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) Reduce Packaging and Use Bulk Materials

Reducing packaging waste is an easy yet effective way to cut down on construction site waste. Whenever possible, order materials in bulk to reduce individual packaging generating large volumes of waste but must make sure you have sufficient storage space so materials don’t get damaged. You can also opt to procure through supply partners who use recyclable or minimal packaging, further decreasing your project’s footprint.

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) Focus on Social Value

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

Regular monitoring of waste management practices will allow your project to keep standards high and aligned against project goals. By setting benchmarks, through tracking waste reduction progress, 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.