UK Group Calls for More Integration of Recycling at Construction Sites

The Chartered Institute of Building is calling for all construction projects that involve more than 30 days or 500 person days of construction to plan and implement a Site Waste Management Plan. The CIOB says that creating this would encourage more efficient use of materials, as well as reduce waste. The proposed threshold also provides consistency with notified projects under the new Construction Regulations thereby minimizing additional red tape.

Each year the construction industry generates 109 million metric tons of waste, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Michael Brown, CIOB deputy chief executive commented, "As an industry we can't just rely on construction companies with an ethical approach to the environment to take up the slack for those that show little concern for the use and misuse of our resources. We need a change of behavior that requires everyone to reduce waste. Without the appropriate regulation and teeth we fear that SWMPs will only be used by larger operators who have an interest in environmental issues.

"We would like to see a greater emphasis from government on the use of sustainable materials, equipment and techniques. All construction projects should be designed and built to be environmentally efficient with a measurable reduction, and recycling, of construction waste.

"If SWMPs are made mandatory they may result in some additional cost, but given a level playing field this should not affect the competitiveness of the company. There will be opportunities for cost savings in terms of recycling and reuse that would help offset any costs incurred."

The CIOB has submitted that principal contractors should be responsible for preparing and implementing a SWMP; recognizing that they can delegate this responsibility if appropriate. Principal contractors must also be involved early in the design phase and in the procurement of materials.