Waste reduction final report -4 - Test Input

Roles and responsibilities
Manufacturers of building materials are required:
• to develop and manufacture new building materials which decrease non-recyclable
materials;
• to disclose the nature of the materials when used as building materials;
• to decrease waste production and facilitate the process of deconstruction and
recycling by avoiding materials that are difficult to recycle at post demolition stage
Planners and designers are required to consider the effective deconstruction of the building;
and choose building materials that facilitate recycling the building material wastes, in an
efficient, effective and cost effective way. Material selection should also avoid building
materials containing hazardous substances as these are difficult to recycle. Clients are
responsible for ensuring that waste is reduced, and demolished buildings are separated into
materials for recycling. Main contractors are responsible for ensuring any subcontractors will
reduce waste and separate building materials for recycling. All contractors are required to
properly implement and facilitate such actions as the restriction of the occurrence of waste
building materials, dismantlement, and recycling of the waste building materials through
construction method, proper choice of building materials, and development of construction
technology. Waste contractors are required to enforce the recycling of building material
wastes. The Government is required to encourage research and development, data provision,
dissemination of good practice, and provide funding to support the restriction of the
occurrence of waste building materials, dismantlement, and recycling of the waste building
materials. Municipalities are required to take necessary measures in collaboration with
government policy.
Dismantlement (deconstruction), and recycling of the waste building materials.
Due to the varying nature of buildings, deconstruction must be implemented carefully with
the right building method according to the building, utilising appropriate skills, techniques
and equipment. Those working in deconstruction/demolition are required to have knowledge
and higher skills. Materials should be reused or recycled on site if possible. The cost of
deconstruction should be minimised through promoting technological development,
collaboration with others and the development of suitable facilities. The availability of
recycling sites varies regionally and this needs to be understood.
Waste reduction
Everyone involved in producing building waste should play an active part and collaborate
with others to restrict building material wastes. Buildings should be properly maintained and
renovated to prolong their life. Those who manufacture building materials are required to
precut building materials, and enable the maintenance of building materials which have
potential of increased durability and renovation. The designer is required to strive for
improved durability of the framework of structure, as well as to promote long-term use
through correct maintenance and renovation. The client should consider the long-term
durability within the technically and financially viable range. In addition, the client is
required to restrict difficult to recycle building materials, and employ a construction method
that promotes the reuse of building materials at end of life, whilst striving to build a highly
durable architecture. The client particularly is required to promote the recyclability of
concrete-type frame structures. The Government will require waste prevention when acting as
a client. Municipalities are required to develop local measures that align with government
policy.
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