Figures by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that in 2020 construction activities generated the second largest amount of solid waste in Australia, behind manufacturing.1 Incorrectly contained waste can be blown or washed off sites, blocking stormwater infrastructure and impacting our waterways. Plastic litter, soil and other waste carried off building sites can cause harm to aquatic life, contribute to flooding and algal growth and increase human health risks. The construction industry can reduce the amount of litter and waste generated on sites and protect our waterways by adopting sustainable resources and building practices.
Effective waste management includes:
- Minimising waste generation and sorting waste where possible.
- Put all construction waste into on-site bins (skip bins, mesh cages, etc.). If using a mesh cage, wrap waste to prevent small items escaping.
- Cover the waste bins when not in use, in high winds and at the end of each working day to prevent litter from blowing off-site.
- Empty waste bins when they are at capacity.
- Secure polystyrene construction products effectively. Manage them in a way that prevents dispersal to surrounding environment.
All waste produced on building sites must be contained entirely on the site. This includes materials that can be windblown. Not only can litter/waste going off-site into the gutter/drains or waterways be an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1994, but under Local Law No 3 – Section 25E(1)(a) there is also a requirement to take all reasonable and practical measures to store general waste in waste containers.
|