Measures Database
| WASTE: RECLAIMED CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS |
Fit as standard Applicable to all sites Low cost Easy implementation BREEAM credits achievable |
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Description |
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 If the development has a demolition phase, materials can be sorted and reused or recycled as appropriate. Materials can include brick, concrete, hardcore, subsoil and topsoil, timber and steel frames. Potential opportunities for using these materials include:• Use of reclaimed aggregates or road planings in road construction • Selection of concrete blocks with high Pulverised Fuel Ash (PFA) content • Use of recycled plastics in products such as water butts, street furniture etc • Sub and topsoils excavated for re-use in residential gardens and landscaping. Developers can require contractors to demonstrate track record of sustainable demolition/ deconstruction and build incentives/disincentives into contracts (e.g. penalties/bonuses linked to quantity of waste disposed of). |
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Cost |
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| Assumed no additional cost. Potentially there could be some savings, for example arising from reduced landfill tax.. | |
Benefits |
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Local Authorities |
There are national, regional and local targets on waste and recycling. “Policies proposing any major new development should incorporate adequate and effective waste management facilities,” is a typical statement from a planning document.Developments including a strong waste minismisation strategy will help a local authority meet its targets. Some local authorities have sustainable purchasing policies specifying the use of recycled construction materials. |
Global Environment |
By segregating waste for recycling the quantity of waste sent to landfill is reduced. Further sustainability benefits can be gained by providing a source of materials to other developments, as one site’s waste may be another site’s raw materials. This will reduce the demand for virgin materials, helping to conserve natural resources and energy used in production and transport. Reducing the amount sent to landfill will reduce the rate at which new land must be used for landfill. |
Occupier |
No direct benefit. |
Developer |
If another nearby development has a use for waste materials, there is potential to make money by selling on the reclaimed materials. Recycling companies already exist in many parts of the UK and can be supported through collection and reuse of recyclable construction materials. Having a materials recycling policy may help to increase future tender opportunities and improve relationships with clients and shareholders. |
Implementation notes |
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| Construction waste for recycling will need to be stored separately from construction waste for landfill. This may have space implications. Collection arrangements will need to be made regarding who will collect the waste and how often. Separate, secure and clearly labelled areas for different types of recyclable waste will need to be provided. A recycling policy should be instigated from project inception to ensure all staff, both construction and office, are informed of the process and their role in ensuring it is successful. | |
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