By designing within the constraints of available modules, standardizing designs, and effectively managing orders, material waste can be significantly reduced.
Dr. Dinesh Verma & Akshara Verma, Architects, Ace Group Architects
Waste in the construction industry is unavoidable, regardless of how meticulously a project is planned. However, to reduce waste, it’s important to minimize changes to the building design, particularly once materials have been ordered. While ordering extra materials might seem like a precaution, it can lead to unnecessary waste by the end of the project. Another major contributor to construction waste is improper handling, which can lead to cracked bricks or tiles. Poor storage practices expose materials to the elements, increasing the risk of damage and waste. Plus, general construction workers may generate more waste compared to specialized workers, who are trained to minimize waste and work more efficiently.
It’s estimated that nearly 30% of the world’s total waste is generated by the construction industry, contributing to massive landfills. By reusing materials, we can help reduce pollution and emissions from landfills while also lowering the risk of waste-related accidents on construction sites. Reducing construction waste can significantly save money on both materials and waste disposal expenses.
Construction waste is typically divided into four categories: excavated waste, demolition waste, construction waste, and mixed waste. Each category has its own characteristics, and effective strategies can be employed to minimize their environmental impact. Many materials from both the exterior and interior of existing buildings can be recovered and reused in new projects. Items such as steel, walls, floor coverings, concrete, beams and posts, doorframes, cabinetry, furniture, bricks, and decorative features can be effectively repurposed.
Fly ash, also known as green cement, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cement, offering similar efficiency. It can also be used to produce bricks, which are more durable and longer lasting than conventional clay bricks.
As part of a collective effort, our professional association, IIID-BRC, has established a SWAP club. The club facilitates networking among architect members and collects waste materials from old buildings or those under construction. A warehouse stores the materials, which are then transported to projects. Through this initiative, SWAP has contributed to building toilets and reading rooms for underprivileged communities.
We have been experimenting with mixing demolished brickbats with cement mortar and recasting them into blocks. This process helps us conserve a significant amount of fresh cement. We are also researching waterless construction techniques as part of our ongoing efforts to conserve this valuable resource.
