Plastics are widely used in the construction sector, but they create a lot of waste and environmental pollution, so we need to rethink how we deal with them.
Why does it matter?
Most of the plastic waste from building sites ends up in landfill. It takes up a lot of space and takes hundreds of years to break down. The rest of it either gets recycled or ends up in waterways, damaging ecosystems.
Plastic waste types and sources
Different plastics and quantities will be generated at different stages of the build. Plan before you start building so it’s easier and more efficient to separate your waste and recycling. If possible, prevent the plastic from arriving on your site at all by asking for our nude packaging option.
There are three main categories of plastic waste on construction sites:
- building protection – single-use wrap that protects the building from weather
- product/materials packaging – like timber wrap, bubble wrap, strapping, etc
- construction components – e.g. pipe offcuts, polystyrene insulation offcuts, damp proof membrane etc
How to sort plastic waste
Sorting is the key to being able to either return your plastic waste streams to the supplier or recycle them.
- First, identify your plastic waste streams - common ones include soft plastics, polypropylene (#5), polystyrene (EPS), pipes, and food/drink packaging (usually #1 & #2)
Figure 1 This pie chart shows average proportions of the types of plastic waste generated on building sites
- Then, check if your supplier will take your plastic waste back
- Find local recyclers/transport options
- Set up a recycling area with signs and bags
- Train your staff to use the signs to identify plastic, sort it, make sure it’s reasonably clean and not mixed up with dirt, tape, food, etc
Extra for experts
- Download A4 bin signage
- Download A3 bin signage
- BRANZ Resource Recovery Map – find local recycling providers and services
- Sustainability Awareness Board
- Sustainability Zero Waste Board
- About Us — Waste Hub
