Boser, R A and El-Gafy, M (2011) Accelerating waste minimization in residential construction: A source separation case study. International Journal of Construction Education and Research, 7(1), pp. 58-70. ISSN 1557-8771
Abstract
A 2005 study by the California EPA indicated that new residential construction comprised about 10% of the C&D waste stream. Most residential construction waste is typically landfilled and effective waste management remains an elusive goal. Guided by the ADOP2TTM model for diffusion of innovation, this paper presents the results of a funded project to accelerate the adoption of waste minimization and pollution prevention (P2/recycling) practices by Illinois home builders. Key elements of the study were the identification of priority materials for recycling, local best management practices, and implementation of a demonstration project. The results of the study indicated that builders recognize the marketing value of being perceived as a "green" builder and reported their willingness to recycle if the process doesn't (a) cost more than traditional landfill fees, (b) increase supervision requirements, or (c) significantly change work procedures for trade partners. These criteria can most easily be satisfied by commingling all waste materials and sorting in a recycling facility. In absence of such facilities, onsite source separation of waste during a demonstration project necessitated some changes to production and management protocols. Implementation of the waste management plan required vigilant monitoring of the recycling procedures.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | case study; commingling; residential construction; source separation; waste management plan |
| Index terms: | onsite, waste material, monitoring, waste management, stream, landfill, builder, recycling, minimization, management practice, recycle, supervision, implementation, diffusion of innovation, case study, residential construction, marketing, effective waste management, pollution, prevention |
| Subjects: | water management, construction integration, financial risk, management, algorithms, environmental health, contractual arrangements, environmental science, professional development, business, practitioner, building construction, data collection methods, waste management, control systems |
| Topics: | Digital Applications, Project Management, Roles and Professions, Site Management, Sustainability, Research Practice, Cost Management, Information Management, Business Strategy, Procurement, Construction Technology |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
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