Waste Management

4. Construction materials

Concrete, bricks, wood and gypsum or drywall are just a few examples of waste generated by construction, renovation and demolition projects. The best way of dealing with this waste, which is also the most expensive method, is source sorting for immediate reuse or resale. There are also companies that rent out, pick up, and transport bins and dumpsters to sites authorized to receive this type of waste.

 

There are a number of markets for this recycled waste. Here are a few examples:

  • Steel from reinforced concrete is recycled to make reinforcing steel, beams and framing
  • Bricks are used as fill material, drainage stones, aggregates in the production of concrete
  • Gypsum/drywall is used to make fertilizer, animal bedding, acoustic insulation, thermal insulation

 

To promote reuse, we should talk about deconstruction rather than demolition. Deconstruction is easier if it is planned at the building design stage. When undertaking a deconstruction project, proper sorting and storage bins must be provided throughout the process. Companies that specialize in deconstruction can easily be found in the Yellow Pages or on the web.

 

For information on recycling construction waste:

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