Proactive approach to managing construction waste

The construction industry is a key player in helping South Africa achieve net zero gas emissions by 2050. But while green building design and the use of sustainable materials are integral to achieving this objective, the issue of construction waste must not be overlooked.

Waste is an inevitable by-product of any construction project and, if not managed effectively, could seriously hamper South Africa’s ability to conserve our natural resources, says Morag Evans, CEO, Databuild.

Globally, the construction industry generates an enormous amount of waste each year; according to Transparency Market Research, it could be as much as 2.2 billion tonnes by 2025.

In South Africa, a report by the CSIR reveals that our construction industry is responsible for around five to eight million tonnes of construction and demolition waste each year. And with 90% of all the general waste produced in South Africa going to landfills, the country is rapidly running out of space to dispose of its waste.

While it is impossible for a construction site not to produce any waste during its operations, Evans says construction companies need to closely examine their construction practices and identify areas where they can reduce the amount of materials discarded during a project.

“Most of South Africa’s construction waste goes to landfills – which is not a sustainable solution. Construction companies need to reduce the amount of waste generated during a project. One of the best ways to divert waste from landfills is through repurposing or recycling.

“The good news is that the majority of excess, damaged or scrap building materials can be recycled or repurposed and thus diverted from landfills. For example, coarse and fine aggregate such as new concrete, mortar and floor tiles can be produced from unused bricks and stones or waste concrete, while damaged wood can be used to make paper or recyclable slab. Additionally, dirt and muck are ideal materials for laying foundations, and metals such as steel can be melted down and reprocessed,” asserts Evans.

Inaccurate estimates in materials orders are another major contributor to construction waste, he continues. “If these excess materials are in good condition, however, construction companies could consider selling them or reusing them in another project.”

A proactive approach

Of course, the management of construction waste is most effective when it is done proactively. This entails the development of a comprehensive waste management plan early in the design phase of the project that clearly indicates which materials can be recycled, reused or resold.

In this way, project waste becomes an integral part of materials management from the outset. In a nutshell, the plan should:

• identify the types of waste that will be generated during the project, and which of these can be recycled, reused or resold with a view to reducing the amount of waste that is sent to landfills

• indicate who will be responsible for managing the plan and ensuring that it is carried out effectively on-site

• identify companies/contractors to be used to dispose of the waste generated on-site in accordance with the plan

• include training and regular information sessions to ensure the project team is adhering to the plan.

Communication with project stakeholders should also form a key component of the plan, Evans adds.

“Requirements and expectations should be clearly formulated and regular discussions held with the project team to ensure they are fully informed of the plan requirements and deliverables for the duration of the project.”

Local examples

Evans urges all construction role players to embrace a culture of eco-friendly waste management practices as a matter of priority.

“Companies that demonstrate good waste management practices will not only achieve considerable savings over the long term, but also enjoy an enhanced brand reputation that will ultimately bring in new clients. After all, who wouldn’t want to work with a company that is serious about keeping our environment healthy and protecting our planet?”

Evans highlights Concor – a diversified infrastructure and construction services company – which applies a waste hierarchy system in all its projects to ensure that construction waste is effectively managed.

“Rubble Cycle upcycles building rubble to produce products such as filling sand, stone, kerb mix and others. Shisalanga Construction (part of the Raubex Group) used recycled plastic to pave a road in KwaZulu-Natal.

Achieving net zero

Evans asserts that construction companies should minimise harmful practices that negatively impact the carbon footprint of buildings. When it comes to building design, Evans advises that professionals should incorporate features that enhance energy efficiency and specify sustainable materials that lower carbon levels over the long term.

“Where possible, construction materials made from recycled content should be used. Construction companies can further reduce their environmental impact by reducing water waste during a project’s life cycle. Harmful pollutants in surface run-off, for example, can contaminate local water supplies and damage the environment.”

Additionally, waste generated from construction activities, as well as any stock left over at the end of a project should be recycled.

Economic viability

South Africa’s landfills are rapidly filling up, so alternative, more sustainable ways of managing waste are urgently needed. Effective waste management practices can go a long way towards saving costs on a construction site and enhance a company’s brand reputation.

“Cost savings can be made through enhancing the accuracy of estimates in materials orders, which reduces the purchase of excess materials. Where this cannot be avoided, however, excess materials can be resold to recoup these costs. Additional cost savings can be made by repurposing or recycling damaged and/or scrap building materials for future projects.

“Effective waste management practices also help to stimulate job creation by creating business opportunities for the recycling industry as well as local communities,” concludes Evans.