International Review of Waste Management Policy - Department of ...

Good waste management practice - prevention, minimisation, recycling and
appropriate disposal as a last resort – is an integral part of plans and actions at each
phase of the construction and demolition process developed through the C&D Waste
Management Plan. The promotion of sustainable development, environmental
protection and optimum use of resources are key underpinning principles. As such,
the development of such plans should improve management of wastes where the
aims of the plan are delivered.
42.7.1 Environmental Benefits – Prevention
C&D Waste Management Plans introduce the concept of project based waste
management planning for projects above certain thresholds and are based on an a
cradle-to-grave approach to C&D waste management. The ultimate objective of C&D
Waste Management Plans is to organise waste management activities on a
construction or demolition site in accordance with proven and best practices so as to
prevent waste generation in the first instance and increase on-site re-use of material.
Successfully implemented C&D Waste Management Plans, which contribute to the
prevention of C&D waste, could also result in a reduction in C&D waste related
nuisances (dust, windblown litter, visual impressions, etc).
42.7.2 Environmental Benefits Associated with Recycling
Similarly, successfully implemented C&D Waste Management Plans should result in
planned-for recycling of materials which will arise in the demolition and construction
phases. In principle, the approach could also encourage the use of materials from
secondary sources as a means to boost the development of markets for these.
42.8 Implementation Costs
In many cases the developer employs an engineering consultancy to prepare a C&D
Waste Management Plan for a particular project. The plan is included in the tender
documents issued to prospective contractors for quotation. According to an
engineering consultancy source, a typical C&D Waste Management Plan would cost in
the region of €5,000 to prepare, though this is likely to vary with size and complexity
of the development.
While there is a cost associated with the formulation and implementation of C&D
Waste Management Plans, significant financial incentives are available by way of
resultant waste prevention when current gate fees at waste management facilities,
haulage and labour costs are taken into consideration. It is recognised in the industry
that high transport and disposal costs serve to make the implementation of C&D
Waste Management Plans financially justifiably even from the perspective of a
developer.
42.9 Response from Public and Industry
The Guidelines, which were drawn up following recommendations made by two subcommittees
of the National Construction and Demolition Waste Council in relation to
construction and demolition waste management plans, have gone through a detailed
consultative process. The National Construction and Demolition Waste Council
(NCDWC) co-ordinated this work.
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