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Packaging materials

Without proper planning, packaging can become a real problem on a construction site. It takes time and energy to store and segregate the large amount of cardboard, paper, and plastics used to wrap materials. To make the task easier, all you need to do is think ahead, and consider the following:

Examples of good practice

• Packaging is designed to protect. Keep materials in better condition and thus avoid waste by unwrapping them only when you need them.
• To avoid doublehandling, separate and store the waste packaging immediately after unwrapping. Do not leave it around on site as it will deteriorate and cause litter problems.
• Many suppliers are now prepared to collect their own packaging for recycling, so talk to your suppliers. If they are not happy to do this, ask them why not. Remember the more pressure we put on suppliers to reuse or recycle their packaging, the more they will have to take notice and the easier our jobs will be.
• Wherever possible try to purchase materials with recycled packaging. Ask your usual suppliers if they know of any products with a recycled content.
• If you have a large volume of cardboard or paper waste on site it is well worth considering hiring a compactor to reduce the volume. You may then be able to sell the baled packaging waste, or when you order materials, ask your suppliers if they will collect their own packaging.

Key references:

• CIRIA SP133: Waste minimisation in construction - site guide.
• CIRIA SP134: Waste minimisation and recycling in construction - design manual.
• Link to CIRIA Internet register of recycling sites.

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