Construction site waste: The real cost and benefits available from waste reduction

This paper discusses research undertaken on physical site waste arising from construction projects. The purpose of the research was to establish the financial benefits available to both contractors and clients from the reduction in construction site waste, and the extent to which any benefits were realised by contractors and clients. This research employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including a thorough literature review, semi-structured interviews, a case study and a postal questionnaire. The study identified the cost of construction site waste produced on UK construction projects, the benefits available through the minimisation of this waste, and the financial savings achieved by contractors and clients. The research established that cost benefits were available and realised by contractors through the minimisation of construction site waste. The research also established that the majority of contractors did not view the savings achievable through waste reduction as substantial, although it was recognised that the possible savings were significant sums in relation to construction costs. The research was unable to establish whether clients benefited directly from a reduction in the volume of construction site waste, although it was suggested that clients would benefit indirectly through a reduction in construction costs.