The National Waste Policy estimates that we produce 67 million tonnes of waste annually in Australia, of which 60% is generated by commercial, construction and demolition activities.
Considering the significant contribution of the construction industry to the generation of waste, it is important to implement a Waste Management Plan during the planning phase of a proposed new development.
The consent authority generally requires a Waste Management Plan to be submitted as part of the development application process to help facilitate waste management and reduction throughout the construction stage of the proposed development. Proponents must provide calculations of demolition and construction waste in addition to comprehensive details of sustainable ongoing operation.
The information provided in a Waste Management Plan is typically assessed against the Council and state government’s targets for minimising waste generation and maximising re-use and recycling.
A Waste Management Plan outlines strategies to manage waste generated by the proposed development and divert waste from landfill by ensuring where possible, any waste generated is appropriately recycled or reused.
The plan should include:
- Achievable waste avoidance and reduction methods.
- The expected amount of waste generation during demolition, construction, and the development’s ongoing operation.
- Identification of how construction waste generated should be monitored and reported.
- The roles and responsibilities associated with contractor waste disposal in large construction sites.
What are the benefits of implementing a Waste Management Plan?
Implementing a Waste Management Plan is evidently a best practice approach to new development where proponents can improve waste outcomes throughout the planning, construction and operational phases of the development.
A well-executed Waste Management Plan at the construction stage will help avoid excessive noise, odour, security, and vermin issues which may potentially arise due to poorly planned waste processing.
Sustainable ongoing waste management can result in cost efficiencies for developers and building management through integration of suitable bin sizing and collection frequencies.
Overall, Waste Management Plans provide an optimal and thorough approach to managing waste through consideration of both the environmental and social benefits of reducing waste generation.
How can Barker Ryan Stewart assist?
We have extensive experience preparing Waste Management Plans for a range of commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments to help manage and reduce the waste generation throughout the planning phase of these developments. We can also provide traffic engineering advice and reporting to determine the adequacy of loading and waste vehicle facilities for submission to the consent authority.
For any assistance with projects requiring the preparation of a Waste Management Plan, please don’t hesitate to contact your local Barker Ryan Stewart office.
