Victoria Calls On Construction Industry To Cut Waste At Building Sites
Victoria’s construction and building industry will be encouraged to take practical steps to recycle and reduce waste with Industrial Relations Minister Martin Pakula today launching a new “how to” guide focusing on better green practices.
Mr Pakula said the “Practical Guide to Reducing Waste on Building and Construction Sites” was a useful tool for the building industry with detailed tips and case studies designed to assist industry players.
“The guide is based on research commissioned by the Building Industry Consultative Council and undertaken by consultants Business Outlook & Evaluation in collaboration with Swinburne University,” Mr Pakula said.
“That research found about 80 per cent of waste was being recycled on larger building sites, but great potential existed on smaller sites to promote the benefits of diverting often saleable waste such as concrete from landfill.
“There are major opportunities across Victoria to recycle concrete and masonry which account for 82 per cent of construction and demolition waste. Not only does this create revenue but is also reduces landfill and the associated costs.”
Around 60 per cent of all waste is diverted from going to landfill with 40 per cent of that waste from construction and building demolition across Victoria.
“Diverting waste from landfill can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the breakdown of wood, paper and organic material,” Mr Pakula said.
“The guide’s key catchphrase to all builders and sub-contractors is: remember the 3 Rs – Reduce; Re-use; Recycle. And the key message is: waste minimisation and recycling pays.
“Victoria’s construction industry is well aware of the environmental and financial benefits of recycling on building and construction sites.
“In the last three years the building and construction sector’s recycling rate has leapt from 54 per cent to 74 per cent, showing how strongly the Victorian industry is committed to a sustainable future.
“However, the challenge is to make sure that the good work continues and that smaller firms across Victoria discover new ways in which to cash in on the benefits of green practices.”
Topics: 2010, Australia, Building Industry Consultative Council, building sites, business, Business Outlook & Evaluation, concrete, construction, economic development, economic growth, Economy, employment, environment, Governance, government, green building, greenhouse gas emissions, industry, jobs, landfill, Martin Pakula, masonry, moniter, monitor, news, organic material, paper, re use, recycle, reduce, Swinburne University, Victoria, waste, wood
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