The generation and disposal of solid waste from building construction and demolition is a major problem in Australia. Construction and demolition waste is estimated to comprise about 20 per cent of the weight of material currently going to landfill. Until very recently this problem received very little attention.
Issues Ask potential building contractors for a waste minimisation plan.
Many contractors may be unfamiliar with such plans, but if their preparation starts to become a key selection criterion they will quickly get the message. Ensure that all subcontractors are effectively included in the waste minimisation plan. The preparation and implementation of waste minimisation plans is a new area of activity in which knowledge is growing rapidly. Seek advice from local and state government bodies on how to go about it. The size and shape of pre-fabricated materials should be considered carefully to minimise unused offcuts.