Waste reduction could save construction firms millions

Environment Secretary Dan Norris has announced that the UK building industry could save millions by reducing waste production. This will free up capital that could be spent creating much-needed jobs in construction.

According to recent analysis by the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP), if just 40% of construction projects across the country adopt good practice over the next three years, the sector could save over £300 million. 

WRAP is responsible for delivering on the government’s targets of halving construction waste to landfill by 2012.

Commenting on this opportunity, Dan Norris said:

“The construction industry has been through one of its toughest ever years. Hundreds of millions of pounds can be saved by the industry, and significant environmental benefits delivered, through reducing and reusing construction waste. The industry is already taking action, and they need to continue building on what they have already achieved.”

Firms from many sectors of the economy have signed up to WRAP’s voluntary plan to reduce waste, including ASDA.

The retail chain’s sustainable development head, Bob Simpson, told the Green Building Press:
 

“For us, waste is cash and any prudent business will be focusing on their bottom line right now. We already have a corporate commitment to achieve zero waste to landfill by 2010, and any environmental or financial savings that we make by reducing or reprocessing waste can be reinvested into our stores and customers."