We know you want to reduce your trips to the landfill but getting started can be the hardest part.
No matter what type of project you are planning; new construction, remodeling or deconstruction, certain planning considerations will always apply for putting your plan into action and estimating the cost:
1. Identify the types of waste and estimate the amounts of waste your project will generate.
2. Check with your local solid waste district about requirements and assistance programs.
3. Check out local salvage and recycling markets for each waste material your project will generate, determine how to reuse the material on site, or plan to give away discarded materials.
4. Determine sorting and handling methods for each material.
5. Determine the locations for sorting reusable and recyclable wastes and identify them clearly.
6. Establish a defined area for the operations of each trade. For example, store your off-cuts from wood cutting in one area so they can be sorted by dimension for future reuse.
7. Maximize the reuse of materials back into the job, by construction crews, salvage businesses or used building materials stores.
8. Determine who will manage the program. Select a manager who has an interest in salvage and recycling. This person will be responsible for tracking waste reused and recycled, making sure staff and contractors don’t put any trash in the collection bins, insuring the bins are emptied as needed, and keeping staff updated on progress and problems with the program.
9. Educate crews and subcontractors about the Plan and post it in visible locations – such as at recycling sites and in construction project offices. Ensure that they understand your Plan and will agree to comply with it. On large projects or projects you are unfamiliar with the subcontractors, you can require compliance with the Plan in your contract.
10. Incorporate education into the agendas of regularly scheduled meetings such as project safety meetings.
11. Include everyone in the process. Encourage suggestions on more efficient methods or on adding materials that can be salvaged or recycled.
12. Offer incentives for employee commitment to your Plan such as free donuts or pizza!
13. Include requirements for waste prevention, reuse and recycling in all bid documents and subcontracts.
