In the escalating climate crisis, the construction industry—long a cornerstone of economic development and urbanisation—rapidly shifts toward sustainability. With the construction supply chain accounting for significant environmental impact, the imperative for green practices has never been more urgent. 

We will explore and delineate the key strategies you can apply to keep your construction supply chain management strategies responsible and up-to-date.

1. Source Sustainably

The Imperative of Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainable sourcing begins with the conscientious selection of materials. Concrete, steel, and similar standard construction materials are notorious for their high carbon footprints. Concrete production alone accounts for approximately 8% of global CO2 emissions. This is mainly due to the energy-intensive process of calcination, where limestone is heated to produce clinker—a key component of cement. 

According to Statista, the manufacture of cement in the UK alone produced roughly 7.03 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions in 2021. And that’s after the emissions from cement manufacturing have fallen by nearly 50 per cent since the 1990s. 

Similarly, steel production emits significant quantities of CO2, particularly when produced from virgin iron ore. In the UK, carbon emissions from iron and steel manufacturing amounted to roughly 10.9 million metric tons in 2021, slightly down from the previous year. Since 1990, emissions from this industry segment have seen an overall downward trend, but not without fluctuation. The decrease is also attributed to the production of recycled steel and aluminium, which require significantly less energy to process than their virgin counterparts.

Another solution is natural, eco-friendly alternatives, such as bamboo or reclaimed wood.  Bamboo is comparable to traditional hardwoods in its performances—it’s even stronger than many (oak and maple included) with a tensile strength of up to 28,000 pounds per square inch (psi). What makes it far more advantageous is that, at the same time, bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants, capable of reaching maturity in just three to five years. 

Due to its high density and fast growth rate, bamboo has a higher carbon storage capacity than other tree species. This material sequesters some serious amounts of CO2: 17 to 60 tonnes per year, depending on the species. 

Certifications and Standards

The BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certification is one of the world’s leading sustainability assessment methods for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings. BREEAM standards are a norm in the UK for various criteria, including energy use, pollution, transportation, materials, waste, water, and landfill use. 

The Green Guide to Specification, published by the BRE, provides guidance on the environmental impact of building materials. Another important certification in this field is the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), which confirms that wood products come from responsibly managed forests. 

The UK also adheres to the PAS 2080 standard for carbon management in infrastructure. PAS 2080 provides a consistent framework for managing whole-life carbon emissions and encourages the use of low-carbon solutions throughout the supply chain.

ISO 14001 certification is an international standard that specifies the requirements for an effective environmental management system (EMS). It helps organisations improve environmental performance through more efficient resource use and waste reduction.

2. Utilise a Hyper-Local Supply Chain

Reducing Transportation Emissions

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the transportation sector accounts for approximately 16.2% of carbon emissions worldwide. Worse, their report shows that in 2022, CO2 emissions from transport kept growing and almost returned to 2019’s peak. 

Source: IEA

The construction sector relies heavily on transportation to move hired machinery from depot to site and vice versa. On average, each product travels a staggering 60 miles to reach the desired construction site. 

However, using a hyper-local supply chain can alleviate your projects’ environmental impact. These digital supply chains can match your booking to the closest available supplier, consolidate transportation, and reduce wasted miles.

3. Implement Circular Economy Principles

What Is Circular Economy

It’s a concept opposite to the traditional linear economy of “take, make, dispose.” In a circular economy, materials are used for as long as possible, while products are designed for longevity, reparability, and recyclability.

Design for Deconstruction, Reuse & Recycling 

Minimising carbon emissions requires wholesome strategies and thinking ahead. The “Design for Deconstruction” supports creating easily disassembled buildings with materials that can be reclaimed for reuse. Behind it is the idea of preserving natural resources as much as possible by reducing the demand for virgin materials.

Modular Construction Techniques

In modular construction, buildings are assembled from prefabricated sections and can be dismantled and reused. In addition to reducing waste and improving efficiency, the modular approach allows for greater control over the construction environment.

Modern modular structures differ from traditional prefabricated ones because of cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. Traditional prefabrication means assembling components in a factory before transporting them to the site. Modular construction, on the other hand, employs eco-friendly materials, advanced robotics, automation, and precision engineering to achieve higher quality control, uniformity, and precision in production to meet new standards.

The Brighton Waste House Example

The Brighton Waste House is a pioneering example of how circular economy principles can be applied in construction. Designed by architect Duncan Baker-Brown and constructed from approximately 90% waste, surplus material, and discarded plastic gathered from the construction and other industries, it’s the first permanent “carbon negative” public building in Europe, with full Planning & Building Regulations Approvals. 

The house was built using waste materials from local construction sites, schools, and households. It includes 20,000 toothbrushes, 4,000 DVD cases, and two tons of denim jeans.

4. Encourage Energy Efficiency

Renewable Energy Adoption

Energy consumption in construction supply chains spans the operations of suppliers and manufacturers, not just the construction sites. Encouraging suppliers to adopt renewable energy sources is one of the critical steps towards a carbon-neutral industry. For example, if a steel manufacturer installs solar panels, it could reduce CO2 emissions by up to 50%. 

Energy-Efficient Manufacturing Processes

Advanced heat recovery systems and optimised machinery cut energy use in manufacturing. To illustrate, by applying innovations, a cement plant could reduce its energy consumption by over 45%, plus a 96% cut in greenhouse gas emissions through closed-loop processes and renewable energy.

On-Site Energy Efficiency

Building Information Modeling (BIM) plays a crucial role here. It lets companies visualise and optimise energy consumption, reducing wastage by up to 20%. Additionally, optimising site layout and utilising energy-efficient equipment can yield a 30% reduction in energy costs during construction.

5. Foster a Culture of Sustainability

Comprehensive Training Programs

Technical strategies have limits; their success also requires raising awareness and equipping employees with the knowledge and skills to implement sustainable practices. 

Workshops, seminars, and e-learning modules help with understanding sustainability issues and solutions, covering a broad range of topics, such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable procurement.

Leadership and Green Practices

You must lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability through actions and decisions. Set sustainability goals and regularly communicate progress, encouraging employees to integrate green practices into their daily work.

Energy Efficiency in Construction Supply Chains: A Path Forward

Addressing energy consumption across the entire construction supply chain, including suppliers’ and manufacturers’ operations, brings substantial environmental benefits. Platforms like YardLink streamline procurement and logistics, allowing you to reduce emissions to hit your sustainability mandates.

Navigating the construction landscape today feels quite different, doesn’t it? If you’re a project manager, contractor, or anyone who makes the tough calls on procurement, this probably puts a lot on your plate. Amidst endlessly balancing timelines and budgets, there’s yet another growing spotlight on how we handle the less glamorous side of construction: waste management. It’s not just about keeping sites tidy; it’s about how our waste-handling choices ripple through the environment, defining our project’s legacy. That’s where landfill diversion reports step in.

Decoding Reports: What Is Landfill Diversion in Construction?

Imagine ending your project not just with a new structure but with a report card that shows you’ve played a part in protecting the planet. Say, something like a snapshot showing the chunk of waste from your site that was saved from the dreaded fate of languishing in a landfill.

And there you have the answer to what the landfill diversion report offers. By categorising, recycling, and weighing what’s reused versus what’s discarded, we get a clear picture – a percentage, to be exact – of our project’s environmental footprint.

Source: Constructionproducts.org.uk 

Why Should You Care?

In an industry contributing to 62% of the UK’s total waste and a staggering 32% of what ends up in landfills, our projects are more than just construction – they’re a statement on sustainability. Plus, let’s not forget that meeting waste diversion goals isn’t just good practice; sometimes, it’s a contract must-have. Falling short can mean disputes and fines – not exactly the project post-mortem we want.

Landfill Diversion Matters More Than Ever

The construction industry stands at a crossroads in the face of escalating environmental concerns and stringent regulations. One path leads to continued reliance on outdated waste management practices, with all its environmental and financial burdens. The other, however, offers a route to sustainability, innovation, and efficiency through the strategic diversion of waste from landfills.

The Bigger Picture: Environmental and Economic Impacts

The construction sector’s massive waste generation isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a glaring inefficiency in one of the world’s largest industries. With the UK construction industry responsible for a significant portion of the country’s waste, the potential for change is enormous.

In short, it’s not just about compliance or public image; it’s about redefining what it means to build in the 21st century. Landfill diversion in construction is more than an environmental good deed. It’s a step towards reimagining waste as a resource that also allows you to turn what was once an expense into an asset.

Care to know how?

The Win-Win of Waste Diversion

Have you considered thinking of waste not as something to dispose of but as a resource? Effective waste management means less spending on new materials and disposal fees. Even better, it offers the potential for a new revenue stream from selling recyclable materials.

Redirecting waste from landfills is a multifaceted strategic move. This practice slashes the carbon footprint of your work while saving precious resources at the same time. But there’s more – it could also be a golden ticket to avoiding fines and bolstering your project’s image.

In that light, diverting construction waste from landfills benefits both the planet and your project.

The Shiny Example of London’s Olympic Park

A standout example of waste diversion planning for the construction industry is the development of the Olympic Park in London for the 2012 Olympics. This project was heralded for its sustainable construction practices, including its ambitious waste management objectives.

By prioritising reuse and recycling of materials, the project achieved a remarkable 98% diversion rate from landfills. Materials such as concrete and metal were recycled on-site and reused within the park, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable construction that reduced environmental impact and optimised project budgets.

From Theory to Practice: Waste Diversion Planning for the Construction Industry

Achieving high landfill diversion rates isn’t just about intention; it’s about action. Here are five practical strategies with real-world advice for embedding sustainability into the fabric of your construction projects.

Annual turnover of the waste collection industry in the United Kingdom, according to Statista

1. Plan with Purpose

It all starts with a blueprint – not for your building but your waste. A detailed waste management plan lays the groundwork for what comes next, helping you identify, segregate, and decide on the fate of various materials. It’s about thinking ahead and making waste diversion a core part of your project from day one.

This plan should go beyond mere disposal, outlining strategies for waste minimisation, recycling, and reuse. Envision the end of your project’s lifecycle at its beginning, identifying opportunities to reduce waste generation and setting ambitious yet achievable diversion targets.

Practical Tip: Involve Every Stakeholder

Don’t play the Titan, holding the entire Earth on your shoulders. Everyone, from architects and suppliers to subcontractors and site workers, should fulfil their role in waste management. Engage with your team early and effectively by incorporating their insights into your plan, and in return, foster a culture of responsibility and innovation.

2. Implement On-Site Segregation to Maximise Recycling

Segregation at the source is the linchpin of effective waste diversion planning for the construction industry. It can significantly increase recycling programs’ efficiency and recyclable materials’ quality, allowing you to strike two flies with one hit. While making recycling easier, you’re also increasing the value of your recyclables.

Separating materials right where they’re generated requires setting up the right skips in the right places and ensuring everyone on-site knows the drill. This means clear signage, accessible containers, and ongoing education for all site personnel.

3. Build Partnerships with Recycling and Reuse Facilities

Landfill diversion in construction isn’t a solo journey. Collaborating with the right partners who get the construction gig can dramatically widen your recycling options. They have the know-how to turn your site’s waste into someone else’s building blocks.

Hiring waste management services, from skips to grab lorries and everything in between, ensures that the supply chain partner conducts waste removal and landfill diversion and relieves the contractor of the responsibility.

Practical Tip: Seek Innovation

Keep an eye out for the latest in recycling technology and materials science and consider how these innovations could fit into your project. There’s always something happening in areas like concrete recycling, wood repurposing, or metal salvaging. These aren’t just small changes; they can really increase the amount of your project’s waste that avoids the landfill.

4. Track, Analyse, and Report Your Progress

What gets measured gets managed. Regularly tracking how much waste you’re diverting can highlight your progress and areas for improvement. These insights can also be used to refine your approach, ensuring continuous improvement in your waste diversion rates.

This is the step where you can see how you’re performing against your project’s waste diversion goals.

Practical Tip: Celebrate Your Successes

Share your landfill diversion achievements with your team, stakeholders, and the public. This will boost your morale, in addition to enhancing your company’s reputation as a leader in sustainable construction.

5. Educate, Engage, and Empower Your Team

Have we mentioned that this is not a one-person endeavour? Promote waste diversion planning for the construction industry as a genuine team effort. The heart of any successful landfill diversion strategy is the people who implement it daily. Training your crew on the whys and hows of waste diversion ensures compliance and instils a sense of shared purpose.

Invest in education and training for your team. It will pay dividends, empowering them to make informed decisions about waste management. It’s about building a culture where every piece of waste diverted is a shared victory.

A Call to Sustainable Action

Construction projects today provide the chance to do something bigger – to contribute to a legacy of sustainability and innovation. It’s not just about avoiding fines or ticking boxes for green certifications; it’s about taking bold steps towards a future where construction champions the environment. By embracing landfill diversion, we’re reshaping the foundation of construction for the better.

The journey towards zero waste in construction is ambitious. Still, with the right strategies, commitment, and collaboration, it is within reach. Adopting a holistic approach to waste management, focusing on practical implementation, and fostering a culture of sustainability can transform the industry from the ground up.

You are the changemakers in hard hats steering the course of construction projects across England, building for today as much as for a sustainable tomorrow. Let’s take this challenge head-on, transforming every site into a legacy that lasts, not just in steel and stone but also in our commitment to a greener planet.

In a time when caring for our planet has never been more important, the construction sector is finding itself at a turning point where innovation meets responsibility. Decarbonisation isn’t just the latest trend; it’s a major shift, a solid promise to cut down the global carbon emissions this industry is responsible for. This article breaks down what decarbonisation in construction really means, tackling the basics, the hurdles, and the game-changing strategies setting the stage for a greener future in construction.

Embracing the Green Revolution in Construction

The UN Environment Programme’s report from September 2023 put the spotlight on the construction sector, which is responsible for 37% of the total global carbon emissions. With urban areas growing fast, adding the equivalent size of Paris to the map every five days, the intuitive call is to build less. Or, we could lean on introducing sustainable practices and eco-friendly resources to reduce the carbon footprint. The aim is a significant slash in emissions by 2050.

This means thinking in circles – reusing what we can and prioritising timber and biomass over traditional concrete and steel.

Initiated by the heavy reliance on concrete, steel, and aluminium, which together are behind 23% of global emissions, there’s a push for innovation to make these materials cleaner. The report from the UN and Yale suggests a radical overhaul of how we construct, specifically urging a cut in concrete usage by half by 2060 when most of it would be recycled or made with low-carbon methods.

It’s a challenge that calls for electrifying production processes, scaling up new tech, and getting more from recycling methods.

The shift back to using locally sourced, renewable materials like stone and timber is also part of a broader “back-to-the-future” revolution in construction. The scenarios could involve buildings with living biomass on their walls or roofs, contributing to low-carbon cities. While there’s no single solution to decarbonisation in construction, a mix of new materials and changed processes sets the foundation for change.

Where the UK Construction Industry Stands on the Global Green Map

According to Statista, the United Kingdom’s construction industry produced over 10 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions in 2021. The number marks a whopping 12% rise in just one year, accounting for almost 2.5% of the total UK carbon dioxide emissions in that period. Furthermore, the overall emission was reduced by only 13% between 2018 and 2022, falling seriously short of the 19% reduction goal.  Civil engineering contributes to more than one-third of those emissions. Additionally, buildings and their construction activities amounted to 1.7 million metric tons, accounting for 17% of the total emissions from the construction industry.

Transportation has taken the lead as the top source of pollution, edging past the energy supply sector. This shift comes as the move to renewable energy has significantly cut emissions from energy supply, whereas transport emissions have been on an upward trajectory. According to our research, the average piece of hired construction equipment travels 62 miles between its supplier and the construction site. With the average project sourcing 167 pieces of equipment, the total average distance travelled (in round trips) is 20,708 miles per project. This presents a massive source of unnecessary emissions before the equipment arrives on-site.  The good news is that it leaves significant room for improvement. Procuring from a localised supply chain network opens opportunities to reduce transportation time and distance. At YardLink, 95% of the products we help source are delivered within 15 miles of each project – 75% closer than the industry average.

It is, therefore, clear why decarbonisation in the construction industry is not just a matter of compliance but a critical step forward. Bearing responsibility for a significant chunk of emissions, the time has come for the entire industry to participate actively in reducing its carbon footprint, aligning with broader environmental goals.

Unpacking the Basics: What is Decarbonisation in Construction?

In summary, decarbonisation in construction implies a set of steps and plans designed to cut down on carbon dioxide emissions throughout a project’s life.

This involves everything from how we choose and buy building materials to managing how things run on the job site. Making smarter choices in supply chain management will ensure the project is as green as possible right from the get-go. The next step is keeping that commitment going by focusing on reducing the emissions further.

The Pillars of Decarbonisation In Construction

Decarbonisation in construction is a movement: a push towards making individual aspects of the industry greener while looking at the entire process holistically.

The global strategy rests on several key pillars, each a cornerstone for a more sustainable future. These are energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and intelligent grid-enabled programs. Translated to a practical approach, that means:

• Rethinking traditional practices
• Adopting innovative technologies that can help reduce emissions
• Choosing materials that are not only sustainable but also sourced locally
• Implementing advanced monitoring systems to optimise the use of machinery and reduce idle times.

The industry can significantly reduce its environmental impact by taking a comprehensive approach covering every construction phase, from the drawing board to the daily grind on-site.

Source: UK Parliament

The Carbon Conundrum: Navigating Global Challenges

The path to decarbonisation, however, is fraught with challenges. Entrenched procurement practices prioritise cost over carbon, while the sector’s fragmented nature often impedes unified action.

The comprehensive Shell and Deloitte report reveals how much the pace of decarbonisation in the construction sector varies across different geographies, influenced by local construction markets, governmental policies, economic conditions, and societal awareness. Europe is recognised as a global leader in this space. Stringent regulations and a high number of construction businesses exemplify its collaborative, proactive approach to achieving the net-zero 2050 goal.

In contrast, while also aiming for a net-zero target by 2050, the United States exhibits a slightly different decarbonisation trajectory in the construction sector. The decentralised nature of its regulatory environment and the variation in state-level progress obstruct the path with a specific set of challenges. However, recent policy developments, such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the Buy Clean California Act, signal a growing momentum.

Meanwhile, China and India, with their net-zero targets set for 2060 and 2070, respectively, are at different stages of their decarbonisation journey. China’s scale, rapid urban development, and significant contribution to global cement and steel production make its pathway crucial to the international effort. At the same time, progress is tempered by current priorities for economic growth and infrastructure development over environmental sustainability. India, facing similar challenges, has a lower regulatory focus and societal pressure on decarbonisation within the construction sector.

How Can the Construction Industry Reduce Carbon Emissions?

Along with the change in building materials, Shell’s report also suggests that the key focus is on adopting modular building techniques. The integration of digital tools like Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) calculators and Building Information Modeling (BIM) can significantly optimise design and reduce waste.

The report highlights successful case studies, including the construction of Singapore’s world’s tallest modular buildings, to illustrate the potential environmental and efficiency gains. It underscores the importance of industry-wide collaboration and the adoption of new models that align financial incentives with sustainability goals.

Revolutionizing Procurement Practices

To overcome the hurdles on the path to decarbonisation in construction, we need to fundamentally change our approach to procurement. In other words, the key is to elevate sustainability to be as important as cost and speed in our decision-making process. It’s about creating a market environment where low-carbon products and services are not just an alternative but the preferred choice.

Empowering the Workforce with Sustainable and Digital Solutions

Equipping the workforce with the proper knowledge and tools is another essential step in driving our sustainability goals. Combining endurable practices and digital technologies can significantly improve our performance, making processes leaner and more efficient. In the long run, this dual focus empowers employees to make informed decisions, setting a new standard for the industry.

Harnessing the Power of Local Sourcing and Real-Time Monitoring

Leveraging digital tools for local sourcing and real-time equipment monitoring emerges as a highly effective strategy. This approach significantly reduces the carbon emissions associated with the construction industry, making it even more sustainable.

Green supply chain management plays a substantial role here. It’s about choosing suppliers with product availability closer to the construction site, which, in turn, lessens the environmental impact of long-haul deliveries. Using digital platforms to source materials and machinery locally reduces transportation distances, dramatically reducing vehicles’ emissions.

Real-time monitoring of construction equipment through digital tools ensures machinery is used efficiently. It helps transition to cleaner energy sources for equipment, like electricity or hydrogen, minimising reliance on fossil fuels. By monitoring equipment usage closely, you can avoid unnecessary idle times, further reducing emissions.

Building a Better Legacy With Green Supply Chain Management

The innovative use of technology can guide the industry towards more sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials or hiring low-emission equipment alternatives, enhancing the overall green footprint of construction projects.

Digital supply chains, like YardLink connect customers with local suppliers, enabling 95% of products we help source to be delivered within 15 miles of each project. Procuring from a localised supply chain, we reduce carbon emissions and curtail overspending on logistics, fostering efficient, green supply chain management.

By championing innovative practices, embracing digital and sustainable solutions, and prioritising local suppliers, we strive to catalyse a seismic shift towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Join us in this journey, for the path to decarbonisation in construction is not traversed alone. It demands collaboration, conviction, and a bold reimagining of what it means to build. 

Net zero is the phrase heard across every building site in the UK. If we unpack this idea, many other phrases, like net zero buildings, construction sustainability, and net zero carbon construction, come to mind. These ideas are familiar, but they can be challenging to manage. 

The construction industry is at the epicentre of a web of manufacturing, production, and distribution problems that contribute to the increasing production of greenhouse gases (GHGs). 

The thought of tackling growing carbon emissions can seem overwhelming, but there are a few critical solutions that construction contractors, site managers, and procurement officers can implement in their day-to-day practices to drive change. 

What Does Net Zero Mean?

In 2021, the UK government announced a strategy to reach net zero carbon emissions in all sectors of the economy by 2050. The government’s net zero strategy aims to establish an equilibrium between the amount of greenhouse gas we produce and the amount we remove from the atmosphere to slow down the pace of global warming.

Since the Industrial Revolution began, global warming has been on the rise. According to NASA, the average global temperature on Earth has increased by at least 1.1°C since 1880. 

So, why do so many conversations about carbon emissions focus on the construction industry? 

The Built Environment is Responsible for Around 25% of Annual Global CO2 Emissions

According to UKGBC, the built environment is responsible for 25% of UK emissions. Although, it is widely thought that the built environment is actually responsible for around 42% of carbon emissions in the UK.

Regardless, 25% is a sizable amount of carbon emissions, meaning construction projects are massive roadblocks on the UK roadmap to net zero. Buildings, construction equipment, and embodied carbon emissions all contribute to this figure, but, as we know, there is a lot more to the story. 

Carbon from regulated energy uses (heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting), carbon from the operation of infrastructure (communication networks, waste treatment, street lighting), and carbon from unregulated energy uses (lifts, plug loads, IT servers) all play a part.

Let’s break this down in more detail.

Construction Materials Account for 82-96% Of the Carbon Footprint Of a Building

We can’t talk about the built environment without discussing materials. The cold hard truth is that the production and transport of construction materials account for 82-96% of the total CO2 emissions a building produces. The collection, creation, and distribution of construction materials is an invisible yet essential part of the UK roadmap to net zero. 

Limestone is one of the biggest culprits because it is a crucial component of aggregate, cement, and building stones. Limestone processing is a time and energy-consuming process, so much so that one study suggested that switching to alternative energy resources could significantly reduce global GHG emissions. 

Construction Activity Accounts for 10% Of the World’s Carbon Emissions

Of course, construction sustainability isn’t all about the materials and buildings. The process of creating massive skyscrapers, office blocks, and apartment buildings also takes its toll on the environment. 

In fact, construction activity accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions. Grubbing, erecting scaffolding, grading, excavating, dewatering, clearing and removing materials, as well as any earthworks and pipeworks, fall under the umbrella term of construction activity. Even something seemingly insignificant as leaving heavy machinery idle between tasks can have a massive overall impact on the UK’s net zero strategy.

With such a large proportion of the world’s carbon production coming solely from creating buildings (with another large proportion from the built environment), it is no surprise that the construction industry is under massive scrutiny. 

The Construction Industry Consumed 2.5m Tonnes of Diesel in 2020

In 2020, the UK construction industry consumed a gigantic 2.5 million tonnes of diesel, emitting 6 million tonnes of CO2, greenhouse gases, and other dangerous chemicals. The Construction Leadership Council has created a Zero Diesel Sites Route Map, which seeks to eliminate 78% of diesel in the industry by 2035, but there is still a long way to go. 

Currently, 300,000 pieces of non-road mobile machinery are used in the UK construction industry. Earth movers, backhoes, cranes, pavers, excavators, and dozens of other essential pieces of construction equipment use diesel, which poses a significant threat to the UK roadmap to net zero. 

Construction Sustainability Solutions 

With all these moving parts, how are construction contractors expected to create and execute net zero-carbon construction plans? 

Let’s take a look at the potential solutions.

Electrification of Construction Equipment 

In the construction industry, electrification substitutes fossil fuel sources for electricity generated from renewable energy sources. Manufacturers will use solar, hydro, geothermal, and other renewable energy sources instead of the more traditional, highly polluting sources such as coal, gas, and oil. 

Electrification of construction equipment, machinery, and vehicles is a viable solution to the energy crisis. It has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon emissions produced by construction activity and materials and, therefore, the built environment. If electrification were rolled out widely, net zero carbon construction could be a reality. 

There are also massive benefits for contractors and companies that invest in electrification. In doing so, they are waving green flags to clients, investors, and industry officials. By planting themselves firmly on the UK roadmap to net zero, contractors can establish themselves as serious, socially conscious players in the industry. 

However, there are many barriers to implementing electrification in the construction industry:

• Perception of cost. The perception is that hiring electric construction machinery costs more per day to hire than diesel machinery. However, the cost of supply chain inefficiencies far outweighs the upfront cost of hiring electric machinery. 
• Supply and demand. Electric equipment is relatively new. Even if every contractor in the industry decides to switch to electric machinery, there would not be enough machines to meet the demand. 
• Traditional ideas. Construction supply chains are complex and, unfortunately, are governed by outdated systems. The humble pen and paper are the default means of communication in the industry, and it can be challenging to convince main contractors that modern solutions are efficient. 
• Sub-contractors have little leeway. Subcontractors might be responsible for procuring essential machinery but have little leverage to follow the electric mandate. Main contractors must be fully behind electric machinery before it becomes a reality. 

Implement Decarbonisation Strategies 

As mentioned earlier, materials produce many of a building’s carbon emissions. The solution is simple, but the path there is paved with obstacles. 

To combat this issue, construction contractors must start decarbonising the materials they purchase and use. Decarbonisation does not necessarily mean the emissions are eliminated, but even a reduction would be a positive step toward the UK’s net zero strategy. 

Here are two of the most thought-provoking decarbonisation strategies: 

• Circular economy. The circular economy is based on the idea that we should only source, manufacture, and use materials and products that can be reused. If construction companies reduce, reuse, and recycle vital construction materials, they will make great strides in net zero carbon construction.
• Carbon capture. This process involves capturing carbon dioxide produced through construction activity, transporting it, and storing it underground. However, the process also creates many carbon emissions and, in one notable case, the overall carbon capture process only reduced a plant’s net emissions by 10 to 11%.  

Improve Efficiencies with a Centralised Procurement Platform 

One of the most significant barriers to construction sustainability is inefficient processes. Main contractors and sub-contractors are often misaligned, and precious time is spent sourcing what is needed for the job, which means the focus is often on managing communications rather than pushing for net zero. 

Green initiatives are well-meaning but often fall to the wayside amidst high-priority concerns; finding suitable suppliers, chasing late deliveries, and making budgets stretch. 

Besides, the construction industry is known for taking a more traditional approach to procurement (we see you, pen and paper). In most cases, the digital construction landscape cannot support carbon reduction initiatives. If you have ever been mandated to hire contractors and procure equipment and materials within a certain radius, you will be aware of this problem. 

Even without a mandate, procuring specialist construction equipment is difficult. Contractors must find a supplier that stocks the necessary equipment at a reasonable rate and can deliver it on a set date. When you add a sustainability mandate to the mix, there is a whole load of extra hurdles. Contractors must satisfy all the above within a specific radius of their construction sites. 

YardLink is Different 

It is a centralised procurement platform that allows construction contractors and site managers to see all their orders in one place. Simply give us your requirements (including the mandated radius), and we will connect you to the closest available suppliers. 

Do you need digger hire services within 10 miles? How about 20 tonnes of decarbonised materials within a 15 mile radius of your construction site? This sort of hyper-localisation is no problem for YardLink. Our comprehensive online platform allows you to place and track multiple orders for different projects and with different suppliers. We align our supply chain with your green ideals, supporting net zero carbon construction. 

Want to learn more? This case study explores how Geo Green Power reduced its supply chain emissions with YardLink’s local supplier network. 

As environmental concerns continue to take centre stage, all industries are under pressure to minimise their carbon footprint. The construction sector, in particular, has a significant role to play in this endeavour, given its substantial contribution to emissions through the supply chain.  

Knowing Your Supplier

Contractors can start by assessing potential suppliers who focus on sustainability within their operations and who aren’t limited by their geography. Suppliers who adopt environmentally friendly practices, use renewable energy sources, and engage in eco-friendly manufacturing processes contribute to a greener supply chain. 

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the emissions associated with various suppliers, conducting regular supplier audits is essential. Audits can reveal critical information about a supplier’s processes, including energy consumption, waste management, and carbon footprint. Armed with this knowledge, more informed decisions can be made about which suppliers align with a company’s emissions reduction goals.

We’ve grown tremendously through the years, including our very own Supply Chain Team. Their job is to ensure that we are onboarding reliable suppliers that can not only deliver efficiently and effectively throughout the country but also share our passion for greener logistic solutions. With regular reviews and audits, we can ensure that they are providing you with the best level of service built on a healthy business partnership.

Sourcing Local 

One of the most impactful ways to reduce emissions in the construction industry is by utilising a local supply chain partner. When materials, equipment and fuel are sourced from nearby suppliers, the need for long-haul transportation is minimised, thereby reducing carbon emissions from transportation vehicles. By fostering relationships with local suppliers, construction procurement companies can significantly shrink their supply chain’s carbon footprint, while also supporting the local economy, and reducing the risk of delays.

With over 600 suppliers across 2,000 depots across the UK, YardLink is championing locality on behalf of our customers. Matching our customers’ requirements with the right suppliers, we have managed to ensure that 95% of our deliveries are sourced and delivered within 15 miles of our customer’s sites. This is still done with our usual guarantees and access to our handy operations team who can provide etas for both deliveries and collections so you can feel confident when ordering from YardLink.

Digitalisation

In the digital age, technology offers innovative solutions for reducing emissions. Construction procurement companies can invest in digital platforms that allow for efficient supplier management, inventory tracking, and demand forecasting. By accurately predicting material requirements and streamlining orders, unnecessary transportation and waste can be minimised, leading to reduced emissions.

YardLink’s automated quotation system is revolutionising how thousands of customers place orders. From sole traders to companies making millions in revenue a year, all our customers are utilising our system which allows for multiple quotes within 15 minutes. This has cut down on time and pushed those in an industry still reliant on paper and pen to adopt a more digital approach. 

The YardLink platform also helps to organise any site allowing a more efficient resource allocation. Construction sites up and down the country have admitted to misplacing a range of items from small submersible pumps to large diggers. Keeping on track with what is on hire and located on-site, thus off-hiring when no longer needed, ensures that the production of tools meets the demand in the industry.

The adoption of artificial intelligence from the early stages of site bidding has many benefits including; cost projection, schedule and sustainability promise. Predicting the plant and tools required including the length of hire or the total amount of materials needed ensures the site remains as cost-effective as possible whilst cutting down on waste.

Collaboration

Collaboration is key to achieving significant emissions reduction in the construction supply chain. Working closely with suppliers to identify areas where improvements can be made. This collaboration can lead to joint initiatives such as optimised delivery routes, shared warehousing facilities, and consolidated shipments, all of which contribute to lower emissions.

Packaging materials contribute to waste and emissions. Construction procurement companies can implement green packaging practices by encouraging suppliers to use sustainable packaging materials that are reusable, recyclable, or biodegradable. By doing so, unnecessary waste is reduced, and the overall environmental impact is lowered.

The construction industry has a responsibility to address its environmental impact, and a significant part of this effort lies within the supply chain. Construction procurement companies like YardLink have the opportunity to lead by example and make meaningful strides toward emissions reduction. By embracing local sourcing, prioritising sustainable suppliers, conducting audits, leveraging technology, and fostering collaboration, the construction supply chain can transform into a more environmentally conscious and sustainable ecosystem. As we move towards a greener future, these strategies will not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the industry’s long-term success.

A booming construction industry is a sign of growth and prosperity within any established or emerging economy. The completion of new housing, retail stores and restaurants aims to increase consumer spending. The flip side of this is the completion of offices and workspaces attracting firms to invest in local areas. The demand to build up has largely increased cash flow back into many economies including the U.K, in which £113 billion was injected back into the economy.

However, what may be good for the economy may be detrimental to other areas of concern such as the environment. With 40% of annual global emissions being generated by the built environment (of which 13% is directly linked to construction activities), the $8.2 trillion construction industry has infamously become known as one of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions.

With the effects of global warming becoming more visible daily, the question of how to build in a more sustainable way has become one that needs to be answered as soon as possible.

What is Sustainability?

Sustainability in construction refers to the practice of building and designing infrastructure in an environmentally responsible and resource-efficient manner. It is the idea of reducing the environmental impact of construction activities. The goal is to create buildings and infrastructure that have a low environmental impact and can be sustained over time.

With the physical changes in the climate becoming more visible daily, it has become evident that something needs to be done to help stop the effects of global warming. Legislative bodies have imposed numerous schemes and missions to help combat global warming, with the construction industry being one of the most impacted industries.

What has been done to help?

In June 2019, the UK became the first major economy to commit to achieving net zero by 2050. Net zero is the practice of balancing the number of greenhouse gases being emitted into the atmosphere with that being removed. With changes in UK legislation such as the reform of red diesel usage, the construction industry has become one of the most affected, creating the demand for change in the UK.

There has since become a global effort to achieve Net Zero by 2050. With over 70 countries focusing to reach this target, massive strides have been made to revolutionise multiple industries and legislative changes to help reduce the total emissions emitted into the atmosphere. As of March 2023, we are not on track to hit this target and more work needs to be done before the effects of global warming become irreversible.

How can utilising your supply chain help?

One of the initial steps to becoming sustainable is to know your supply chain. Taking the time to be proactive and informed on what is needed on each project will ensure you are only purchasing or hiring what is required. From tools and plant to fuel and materials, only procuring what is needed will help cut costs whilst reducing waste.

Taking control of your supply chain and using local suppliers have many benefits for any company. Alongside being cost-effective and easier to manage, localising your supply chain will help reduce Co2 emissions into the environment simply by limiting the distance travelled by suppliers for each delivery. Also consciously choosing suppliers who try to work in a sustainable way such as using renewable fuels, planting trees and reusing materials will push more companies to consider these actions.

Researching alternatives to plant or tools required is important in the fight against global warming. Using electric alternatives is a simple way to minimise the total emissions emitted. Sometimes it may be impossible to use an electric alternative for heavy machinery, however, the use of renewable energy sources such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) can help reduce greenhouse gasses by 90% as opposed to the use of diesel. By adopting renewable energy sources and sustainable building practices, the construction industry can contribute to combating climate change while also promoting a more sustainable future.

Staying informed on your supply chain is the starting point to working in a more sustainable way. Only using what is needed, ensuring plant and tools are serviced and working effectively and using local suppliers are just a few ways to fight against global warming. At YardLink you have access to thousands of suppliers nationwide that provide anything from plant to tool hire and fuel to materials. Our online procurement platform will match your needs with local suppliers in the area to ensure you only receive competitive quotes whilst minimising emissions output.

Sustainability in construction is now much more of a focus within the industry.

As the world is moving towards increased sustainability in other sectors, construction companies need to evolve with this change. According to the Royal Academy of Engineering, the construction industry contributes to nearly 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions.

From creating sustainable building designs, to improving waste disposal, there are multiple ways to make your business more green.

As an industry, construction is a big user of natural resources, which unfortunately isn’t helpful for the environment. Using resources such as wood, oil, or certain metals, contributes to soil degradation, water shortages, and damage to ecosystems.

Due to the finite nature of these resources, one way or another, we will run out of them in the future.

Now, biodegradable materials, renewable energy sources, and other methods are available and accessible, making it easier for businesses to become more green.

In this blog post, we will explore various ways in which construction companies can increase their sustainability, and decrease their negative impact on the environment.

What Is Sustainability in Construction?

Sustainability in construction involves using techniques that extend into the future. This means buildings are designed and constructed with the environment in mind, and will continue to have minimal impact for years to come.

The main goal of sustainable construction is to reduce the industry’s impact on the environment on the whole. This means care must be taken to reduce waste and energy consumption on-site, in order to protect the surrounding natural environment.

Reducing impact can be achieved through various techniques and plans put into place when managing construction projects. For example, incorporating reusable and renewable materials into construction, or considering alternative energy sources like solar and wind power for your site.

Why Is It Important to Be Sustainable in Construction?

The main importance of sustainability in construction, and making businesses more green, is to limit the damaging effects to the environment.

The use of eco-friendly methods in construction can improve the lives of future generations, by protecting habitats and providing for the expanding population.

For example, by designing and constructing buildings that consist of reusable or biodegradable materials, this will promote the right idea to future generations. As a result, the original materials used in construction will either biodegrade back into the earth, or be recycled into a future project.

This is important in terms of future waste management as reusable materials produce less waste to be sent to landfill. Failure to dispose of waste correctly can contribute not just to environmental pollution, but can also negatively impact the health of people in the community.

Another important aspect of making your construction business as sustainable as possible, is the growth in attraction from clients.

As the future of construction is green, potential new clients will be drawn to businesses who are making their own efforts towards being more sustainable.

How To Make Your Business Green

There are multiple ways you can make your construction business more green.

As construction project manager, introducing changes to materials, transport, and waste management can all contribute to the sustainability of your business.

Major ways to be more green as a construction business, and do your bit for future generations, include:

• Using renewable energy sources
• Using reusable, recycled, or biodegradable building materials
• Managing waste disposal
• Altering transport methods

We will go through these examples in more detail below. However if you’re looking for extra ways to make your business greener, check out our list of green construction techniques.

Renewable Energy

Wind power, hydropower, and solar power are all sources of renewable energy that can be stored in the short-term, and used to generate heat and electricity during construction.

If this type of energy is prioritised over others, it reduces the need for fossil fuels usage on-site.

Hydropower

This energy source is readily available and unaffected by weather conditions and can therefore be used to fuel equipment and lighting used on site while work is being carried out.

Using hydropower has its advantages, as its only byproducts are heat and water (which are non-toxic), it has no contribution to air pollution, and it is relatively inexpensive in the long-run.

Solar Power

Another source of renewable energy is solar power which can be produced in two forms -, active and passive.

During construction, placing windows strategically, using heat absorbing surfaces, and using insulation, are all forms of passive solar power, as they optimise heat or light directly from the sun.

Active solar power comes in the form of systems such as solar panels, which convert energy from the sun to usable forms of energy, such as hot water.

Solar power is useful for construction businesses as the energy generated can be used to provide electricity for power tools on-site, or solar panels can be installed onto buildings to add to their long-term sustainability.

Wind Power

This fuel source is cost-effective and clean, as wind power doesn’t add to air pollution and is sold at a fixed price over long periods of time. Therefore, it is a low-cost way to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Construction sites can use wind energy as their main source of fuel as it is suitable for areas not connected to the power grid. Therefore, wind power is useful for sites that are rural, so wherever construction is occurring, sustainability can be achieved.

Building with Sustainable Materials

Popular building materials such as concrete contribute towards the world’s Co2. For your business, it may be useful to trial out sustainable materials to begin with so you can evaluate where swaps can be made.

For example, straw bales can do the same job as concrete as they can provide structural support to buildings as well as providing resistance to the wind. In addition to this, straw is cheaper, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable.

Biodegradable Materials

A lot of the time, even when materials are reused or recycled, they end up in landfill.

Biodegradable materials help to recycle back into the environment as they can be broken down by bacteria and fungi. This allows natural decaying processes to continue without releasing toxins back out into the atmosphere.

Here are some examples of what you could be incorporating into your construction that don’t end up in landfill:

• Bamboo
• Cork
• Bioplastics
• Linoleum
• Bioplastics
• Organic paints

Although using these materials improves your chances of reducing waste overall, it’s important to ensure correct waste disposal methods are in place for materials that can’t be recycled.

This leads us nicely onto our next section…

Better Waste Disposal Methods

Waste is inevitable in construction, but it is a legal requirement to dispose of this waste properly from construction sites.

As we mentioned earlier, building with sustainable, recyclable, or biodegradable materials means you can avoid sending all of your waste to landfill. It may be possible for you to use the waste from ripping down one building, to help construct the next one.

Another way to reduce your waste within construction is to use on-site wastewater treatment plants. Treating the water used on-site creates a large resource ready to be used, as this water can be used to clean equipment or pumped back into construction to lower your businesses water footprint.

Before sending all of your leftover waste straight to landfill, donating construction materials to local people gives the materials a new use. This way the materials avoid landfill, and can be put to use in a different but effective way. Furthermore, this also allows the public to recognise the fact that your business is making more sustainable choices.

Despite efforts to decrease the amount of waste created on-site, there will always be certain materials that can only be sent to landfill.

The European Waste Catalogue (EWC) or List of Waste (LoW), categorises all of the different types of waste, so you can be sure you’re disposing of everything correctly, and in the least harmful way.

At YardLink we have various waste disposal hires available, to ensure your waste management is as sustainable as possible, check them out here.

Efficient Transport Methods

Transport is central to construction project management, as without your materials or equipment, the job can’t begin.

The locality of suppliers is important to avoid longer journeys that contribute to carbon emissions. YardLink provides depots across the country so they are local to you, help to limit your travel, and therefore decrease your environmental impact.

Using a fleet to transport your team and everything they need to get the job done is still essential, however, it can be done more efficiently and sustainably.

First of all, it may be that you want to consider switching to eco-friendly fuels or vehicles, if that’s possible for you and your business.

Bioethanol is a good alternative to petrol and diesel, as it limits pollution while increasing vehicle performance, and as an extra added bonus, is made from waste materials.

Alternatively, Biodiesel which is made from edible oils, is useful in areas where diesel pollution is high, as the reaction between oil and alcohol is a lot less harmful to the environment.

It then goes without saying that eco-friendly or Green vehicles are another way to help your business become more sustainable. For example, going completely electric with your vehicles is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint and eliminate fuel usage.

If this isn’t possible for your company due to the cost or maintenance, there are other ways you can adapt your transport plans.

For example, making your transport as efficient as possible can be done by planning the routes of your fleet to avoid going the long way round, and ensure your vehicles aren’t making unnecessary trips or stops off while travelling from A to B.

This way the transport in your business will be efficient, cost-effective, keep your operations running smoothly, and lower your carbon footprint overall.

Electric Construction Equipment

Electric construction equipment can also impact the sustainability of your construction business.

Switching from diesel to electric has many benefits such as reduced noise pollution, and lower carbon emissions and running costs.

Project managers have a responsibility to reduce the amount of noise pollution produced on-site, according to the Control of Pollution Act 1974.

Electric equipment can limit noise pollution as it is considerably quieter than other equipment that runs on diesel or petrol. This not only protects the nearby communities, but the workers on-site too. Changing to electric equipment directly affects the protection of your team, as reduced noise pollution can prevent temporary or permanent hearing problems.

Due to the construction industry being responsible for a huge percentage of the UK’s Co2 emissions, it is important that construction businesses are prioritising green building techniques. Substituting equipment for electric versions eliminates the need for fossil fuels within construction, as diesel and petrol are no longer required, and lithium-ion batteries can be used instead.

Using electric equipment equally helps with operating costs, as fuel isn’t required. Electric models automatically switch off when the operator stops the machine, and this means energy isn’t wasted.

At YardLink we carry a lot of electric machines, such as electric scissor lifts and electric boom lifts, to help with the sustainability of your projects. If you’d like to know more about the electric equipment we have available, check out our range here.

Sustainability in Construction: How Your Business Can Be More Green

Sustainability in construction can do so much for your business, as well as reducing your impact on the environment.

Adapting the way you and your construction team work, also has the potential to improve the efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of your business.

An increasing amount of the population are taking more interest in making eco-friendly choices and the demand for sustainable housing and buildings is on the rise.

To cater to this, construction project managers can implement sustainable choices into their plans, whether that is building with passive solar power in mind, or decreasing the amount of concrete used.

At YardLink we understand the importance of sustainability and doing our bit to help the environment.

One of the biggest contributing factors when sourcing construction equipment can be driving to depots which are located miles away. However, YardLink have a large network of depots nationwide which means wherever you’re based, there’s likely to be a depot near you. As such, this means making less trips for the equipment you need as you can access everything from one place. To find out more about how we can help your project, simply get in touch.

Electric construction equipment provides many benefits to the construction industry including reduced co2 emissions, less maintenance, and lower operating costs.

There has been a big focus on making the construction sector more sustainable as it has historically had a negative impact on the environment. In reality, this industry contributes a great deal to air pollution, water pollution, and waste disposal.

Therefore the introduction of more electric machinery is welcomed and is very much needed to help the construction industry reduce their carbon footprint.

Along with electric cars and public transportation, heavy electric machinery is becoming part of the norm and is available to buy, rent, and hire worldwide. In this post we’ll explore different types of electric machinery and the benefits of this eco-friendly alternative.

Hopefully this will encourage your business to become more green.

Electric Construction Equipment vs Diesel: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever passed a construction site and seen a whole load of vehicles and machinery, the chances are, these are all powered by diesel. However, whilst diesel is still the main runner in the construction industry, electric and hybrid vehicles are growing in dominance.

What’s more, you wouldn’t even know from an aesthetic standpoint that anything was different. Electric vehicles look pretty much the same as their diesel counterparts and have similar performance capabilities.

For example, Volvo reported that their ECR25 electric excavator and L25 electric wheel loader are nearly identical to their diesel counterparts. Every line of the specification is the same which reflects that there is no drop in power or performance. There are a few exceptions such as a small increase in continuous motor power and a slightly higher operating weight for the electric models. However, in the grand scheme of things, these differences are marginal.

People can often fall under the misconception that electric vehicles are in some way inferior to conventional construction equipment, however this certainly is not the case.

In fact, electric construction equipment offers advantages over a diesel machine and can benefit your business in a number of ways. This leads us nicely onto our next section…

Electric Construction Equipment vs Autonomous Vehicles

Electric construction equipment and autonomous vehicles can be mistaken for the same thing but they are entirely different. When we refer to a vehicle as autonomous, this means a vehicle which can drive itself.

An electrical vehicle refers to the power source i.e. it is being powered by electricity as opposed to petrol or diesel. On the other hand, an autonomous vehicle refers to its operational functionality as it can move with little or no human input.

As well as the self-driving feature of an autonomous vehicle, they also use a variety of AI technology and sensors so that they can operate without the presence of a driver.

Electric Construction Equipment vs Hybrid Equipment

As opposed to all-electric equipment, hybrid construction equipment combines the power of a diesel engine with the emission-saving capabilities of a battery. It contains a smaller diesel engine as well as a rechargeable battery and electric motor.

This makes it an ideal solution for high intensity jobs in co2 restricted locations. Essentially, hybrid construction equipment provides the best of both worlds.

Whilst hybrid equipment still burns fuel, it can recover much quicker by reusing energy that would otherwise be wasted as heat. At YardLink, we provide a range of bi-fuel cherry pickers which can be run off either diesel or electric. This gives you more control over how you choose to power your machinery on site.

What Are the Benefits of Electric Construction Equipment?

Electric construction equipment benefits the construction industry by reducing carbon emissions, lowering operating costs, and mitigating noise pollution. These are huge benefits to any construction manager or contractor as not only are you saving money, but you’re also helping to save the environment.

Let’s take a look at the benefits of electric construction equipment in more detail.

Lower Carbon Emissions

Electric construction equipment is helping the construction industry tackle one of its biggest challenges – global warming. This sector alone is responsible for 45% of the UK’s co2 emissions, a percentage which cannot be sustained.

However, as electric construction vehicles do not require petrol or diesel, they produce net-zero carbon emissions. The lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles effectively eliminate the need for fossil fuels. Therefore, this contributes to a more sustainable planet and greatly reduces the amount of greenhouse gasses being emitted year-on-year.

This is a positive step forward for the construction industry as they can be more hesitant to adopt greener alternatives when it comes to building practices. Furthermore, all-electric vehicles are not only advantageous for some businesses, but they are actually essential as some areas restrict emission levels and prohibit the use of diesel vehicles.

Less Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is a huge problem in the construction industry due to the amount of heavy vehicles present on site. Firstly, high levels of noise can cause a great deal of disruption to those living in the surrounding areas. The Control of Pollution Act 1974 gives the Council the power to control noise on a construction site, and if necessary, impose restrictions on what type of machinery can be used and when. Therefore, any project manager has a responsibility to ensure consideration is taken to minimise noise, as imposed by the law.

Not only does noise pollution affect those living nearby, but it is also very dangerous to the workers on site. However, apart from wearing PPE such as ear muffs, there is a little an employee can do to protect their hearing. Excessive and prolonged exposure to noise can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss or tinnitus (a ringing sound in your ears).

Electric construction vehicles, in contrast, produce little to no noise. It can be quite scary! As electric models do not require a diesel engine and cooling fan, they produce less noise and fewer vibrations. These large pieces of machinery run very quietly, therefore protecting members of the public and workers on site.

Lower Operating and Maintenance Costs

Electric construction equipment not only eliminates the need for fuel, but also reduces operations in the long term. This is thanks to its lower engine run time. In contrast to diesel engines, electric models switch off as soon as the operator stops the machine. Therefore, no energy is being wasted unnecessarily. However, diesel engines continue running even when the machine is idle.

In addition, electric models also have lower maintenance costs as lithium-ion batteries are essentially maintenance-free. Also, electric vehicles usually contain fewer parts which means less money spent on sourcing and fitting replacements.

Delivers Instant Torque

One of the most popular aspects of an electrical vehicle is that as soon as it starts running, the electric motor provides instant torque which is an immediate surge of power. For example, if this was an electric excavator, as soon as the operator pushes a button on the joystick the response would be instant.

There’s no delay which is sometimes the case with a diesel machine. Therefore, employees can get to work immediately which improves productivity and efficiency.

What Are Examples of Electric Construction Equipment?

Electric construction is growing in the construction industry, but it’s still a slow process. As a result, not all vehicles are available as an electric model, but manufacturers are gradually rolling out more electric vehicles.

The following pieces of equipment are available as electric machines which you can hire directly from us at YardLink.

Electric scissor lift

Electric scissors lifts are perfect for indoor applications as they are quiet, emit no emissions, lightweight, and have non-marking tires. This contrasts with diesel scissor lifts which are best suited to outdoor applications as they tend to be more rugged and therefore suitable for uneven or rocky terrain.

Electric scissor lifts are also very compact and can access areas where space is limited. This makes them versatile pieces of equipment as they don’t rely on a large, open space. Therefore they are ideal for doorways and narrow corridors.

Furthermore, the height of an electric scissor lift makes the units ideal for warehouses and building management to assist with tasks such as stocktaking and installing lights.

At YardLink, our range of electric scissor lifts are available in a range of sizes. They are an ideal solution for a variety of construction, maintenance, and installation work and provide an effective alternative to ladders or access towers.

Electric cherry picker

Electric cherry pickers can be used in a variety of applications, both indoors and outdoors. They also have the ability to work in co2 restricted areas due to the fact they do not require diesel or petrol.

Another advantage of using an electric cherry picker is that it can be used in noise sensitive environments such as hospitals and in urban areas before and after working hours. As a result, they are an ideal solution when working at height regardless of whether you’re in a factory or working in a built up area.

At YardLink, our 11m narrow electric cherry picker is quiet and emission free making it ideal for indoor use.

Electric Boom Lift

Electric boom lifts are an environmentally friendly solution for a range of hard to reach jobs. Using a platform with a long arm that is attached to a ground base, this piece of equipment extends upwards to carry personnel or materials to new heights.

There are lots of advantages to using an electric boom lift as they can fit in confined spaces, are easy to manoeuvre, and have self-levelling platforms. They can be used for a range of jobs, particularly when you need to move horizontally. This makes them a great option when carrying out electrical work or other types of overhead construction work.

Aside from these operational benefits, they are also a perfect solution for any business wanting to reduce their carbon footprint. Due to the fact that they are powered by electricity rather than fossil fuels, this makes them a popular choice.

At YardLink, our 10m electric boom lift can operate in restricted spaces thanks to its compact dimensions and lightweight design. They are most often used in confined areas which cannot accommodate traditional scissor or boom lifts.

Electric Mast Lift

Electric mast lifts are a type of boom lift, often included in types of low level access. As a powered access platform, they move up and down in a vertical motion to provide access at height.

They are highly manoeuvrable and suitable for offices, warehouses, retail, and crowded industrial aisles. At YardLink, our 5m electric mast lift is perfect for restricted spaces making it a very versatile piece of equipment. It has a maximum weight capacity of 510kg meaning it is capable of lifting both personnel and equipment.

Electric Construction Equipment: The Future of the Construction Industry

Electric construction equipment is not a new concept, although it is growing in popularity within the construction sector. The need to create a more sustainable planet has been intensified in recent years, and this push applies heavily to the construction industry.

Electric vehicles are just one way this industry can become more green and reduce their carbon footprint by burning less fossil fuels. On top of this, businesses can enjoy a range of other benefits such as improving the health and well being of their employees, and even saving money.

Also, thanks to technological advancements, there is no compromise in terms of power or performance if you choose an electric vehicle over their diesel counterpart. So, what’s not to like?

At YardLink, we provide a range of electric construction equipment to keep your project environmentally friendly. We connect you to a network of local, trusted suppliers, and can even deliver your electric machinery the next day. To discuss your rental equipment needs in more detail, reach out to a friendly member of the YardLink team.

Green construction is a growing trend in the construction industry.

For any project manager, finding new and evolving ways to maximise efficiency and minimise cost is a huge priority. From design to planning to implementation, it’s important a building is sustainable and fit for the future.

Business as usual is no longer acceptable. The construction industry alone has a huge carbon footprint and contributes dangerous amounts of emissions to the environment each year. A number of natural disasters have recently elevated the need to create a more sustainable world. One of these was the unprecedented Australian bushfires, where thousands of people lost their lives and homes.

As a result, this has brought the issue of an unsustainable world to the forefront of public consciousness.

In this blog post, we will explore a range of green construction techniques to help building teams incorporate these methods into their next project. By sourcing sustainable materials and following sustainable practices, you can be confident that your building will be operationally efficient throughout its lifetime.

What Is Green Construction?

Green construction means using renewable and recyclable materials when building new structures. This helps to minimise energy consumption and waste, which reduces the negative impact this industry has on the environment.

The primary goal of green construction is to source more sustainable materials and building methods to contribute towards a healthier planet. This goal isn’t achieved when the building is complete, as it should continue to be sustainable throughout its lifespan.

For example, the design should include elements that have an ongoing positive influence on the environment. This covers thorough insulation to prevent any heat loss, and solar panels to decrease energy consumption.

Why Is Green Construction Important?

As we’ve briefly discussed, the construction industry as a whole has a huge negative impact on the environment.

For starters, energy usage is high, as this sector in particular relies heavily on fossil fuels. In fact the construction industry contributes 45% of the carbon emitted in the UK.

The fabrication and shipping of different materials can also have an impact on the environment as a result of transportation. If you are buying components from a different part of the world, consider the journey it takes to reach your business site.

Furthermore, mining for raw materials can pollute local water tables, which could threaten water sources that we all depend on. In fact, the manufacturing of concrete has resulted in 2.8bn tonnes of Co2, which is set to increase in the upcoming years.

You also need to consider the impact of hazardous waste as different building materials and components need to be disposed of safely. If not, they are sent to landfill which not only affects pollutants levels but also the safety of those living in the surrounding area.

At YardLink, we provide a range of skips to suit the needs of your project. This enables you to correctly dispose of any waste materials, giving you peace of mind that you’re doing your bit to help the planet.

LEED Scoring in Green Construction

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. It is used to certify the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of green buildings and was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council.

The system can be used for any type of building and provides a framework for healthy, efficient, and cost effective green buildings. It covers all stages within a project build including new construction, interior fit-outs, and operations and maintenance.

This is a globally recognised certification and is a symbol of sustainability and achievement. When designing and planning a green building, there are lots of considerations to take into account to ensure you have fulfilled the LEED scoring system. As a result BIM software is very useful as it enables all parties to collaborate and work together.

Green Construction Techniques

As well as the two examples outlined above, there are lots of ways project managers can contribute to environmental sustainability.

Let’s take a look at some of these in more detail.

Solar power

Solar power is a popular green construction technique and can be used in two different ways. The first is active solar power, which involves the solar power system absorbing radiation from the sun which is then used for heating and electricity purposes. As such, this reduces the need for electricity or gas and does not rely on burning fossil fuels. Although the upfront installation costs are high, you can enjoy long term savings.

The second way is passive solar power. This uses the sun’s radiation to heat buildings by strategically placing windows and using heat-absorbing surfaces. The windows let energy in and the heat absorbed reduces the need to switch on the heating during the colder months.

Biodegradable Materials

Biodegradable materials are a green construction technique as they are eco friendly. Lots of traditional construction methods lead to a build up of waste products and toxic chemicals, which usually take hundreds of years to degrade. And even when they do degrade, they still pollute and damage the natural environment.

On the other hand, biodegradable materials such as organic paints, bamboo, timber, mycelium (a kind of fungus), and classic linoleum do not end up in landfill. Therefore they limit any negative effect on the environment as they break down easily without releasing toxins. These materials can be used to build foundations, walls, and act as insulation.

Green Insulation

Insulation is a key component of any building as it helps keep heat in and stops cold air from passing through.

However, many people fail to realise that insulation is essentially a wall filler. Its core purpose is to prevent heat transmitting from the inside to the outside of a building. In addition, insulation is not seen as it is sandwiched between two wall structures. Therefore, it does not need to be expensive or highly finished. It simply needs to work in terms of thermal management.

As such, green insulation has proven to be a good sustainable construction technique as it reduces the need to source expensive, non-renewable materials. In contrast, this method makes use of old and used materials such as newspaper, to produce a recycled material which is still highly effective.

Smart Appliances

Homes and commercial buildings consume most of the world’s energy through amenities such as lighting, heating, and ventilation. All of these energy sources can be switched on for long periods of time – even when they are not in use. Therefore, this is a waste of electricity as there is no demand for them to be powered on.

Before smart buildings and smart appliances, a building manager would receive a call from a utility to turn off different equipment. The manager would physically have to walk around the building and manually switch each of these off when they were no longer needed. However, smart appliances are changing the game as they have digital control systems that automate this process.

Examples include smart lighting systems, thermostats, water saving devices, plugs and power strips, and predictive maintenance. The aim of each appliance is to prevent over consumption and energy usage.

Low-Energy House and Zero-Energy Building Design

Sustainable construction technologies usually include mechanisms to reduce energy consumption. For example, by constructing a building with wood, this is a sustainable construction method as it has a lower embodied energy compared to buildings made from steel or concrete.

Furthermore green construction also makes use of designs that reduce air leakage and allows for free flow of air. They also incorporate high quality windows and effective insulation techniques to reduce the need for air conditioning and interior heating.

Strategically placing windows is another green construction technique that encourages lighting to stream through during hours of daylight. As we’ve covered, this then heats the buildings and minimises the need for electricity and saves energy. The use of renewable energy such as solar panels for lighting and water heating is also part of a low-energy house and zero-energy building design.

Electrochromic Smart Glass

This is a new technology that works best during summer months to shut out the harsh heat and glare from solar radiation. It’s useful across a variety of settings where solar control is an issue such as classrooms, healthcare facilities, retail outlets, office spaces, and museums.

It works by using tiny electric signals to slightly charge the windows to change the amount of solar radiation it reflects. This gives users control over the amount of solar radiation they choose to block whilst still giving them access to daylight and outdoor views.

By using electronic smart glass commercial buildings can save a lot on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning costs. This enables building owners to achieve their sustainability goals through energy conservation by maximising solar energy and minimising heat and glare. In turn, this reduces a building’s reliance on artificial lighting, therefore cutting down on energy costs.

Water Efficient Technologies

There are several different types of water efficient technologies each designed to improve water management and reduce the stress placed on natural resources. Examples of this technology include the use of dual plumbing, greywater reuse, rainwater harvesting, and water conservation fixtures. These methods ensure that water is adequately managed and recycled.

For instance, dual plumbing decreases sewer traffic and improves the potential of re-using water on-site. On the other hand, rainwater harvesting provides water for a multitude of purposes and might also be stored for use in the future.

In general, water efficient sustainable construction technologies lower water usage costs and help in water conservation.

How Green Techniques Can Boost Your Business

Any techniques you employ must bring some sort of value to your business so that it’s a worthwhile investment. Whilst it’s all well and good wanting to be a pioneer of sustainable construction, there needs to be a solid business case behind it.

With that said, let’s explore some of the different ways green techniques can benefit your business.

Improves Productivity

Green construction techniques can improve productivity among your employees which has to be a huge benefit! As a project manager, you will constantly be seeking new ways to maximise productivity within your team. Time is money, and the more efficient you can make your work practices the better it is for both you and your client.

When you start applying green construction methods you will find other areas of the project workflow will also improve. For example, you can streamline projects, minimise delays, and significantly reduce maintenance costs.

Increased Workforce

There has been a massive shift in the values of the younger generation as they prioritise climate change and understand the importance of sustainability.

Therefore, when it comes to applying for jobs, they are more engaged when a company shares the same ethos. It is naive to think the younger generation will abandon these values when they move into the workplace as they have seen first hand how important looking after the planet is.

If the construction industry is looking to recruit new talent then they need to learn to adapt, and incorporate these values into their working practices.

By valuing sustainability as much as profit, construction companies have an advantage when it comes to hiring a new wave of skilled employees.

Lower Costs

Green construction techniques lower costs over the lifetime of a building. As this is a long term investment, it can be difficult for businesses to understand the full value of this methodology immediately.

However, by taking a sustainable approach to construction today, business will reap the benefits in years to come, as it will save them a significant amount of money in the future. As a result, it’s important to look beyond the upfront costs and concentrate on the bigger picture.

Builds Reputation

As public awareness and attitudes towards climate change continue to grow, there is much more demand for sustainable construction.

Customers want to know they are playing their part in helping the environment and understand the importance of making a building fit for purpose, not just for today, but for tomorrow and beyond.

Green construction is a growing trend globally, increasing 2x every 3 years. This level of growth in such a short time frame represents the demand for sustainability and the move towards using more environmentally friendly processes.

Improves Health and Wellbeing

Green construction techniques go beyond benefiting the environment as they also improve the health and well being of your staff. Two of the biggest concerns of construction workers are poor air quality and noise pollution, as they are exposed to these two factors for long periods of time.

However, these risks can be mitigated by employing green construction techniques. Therefore as a manager, you can be confident that you’re not only helping the planet but also your team.

Green Construction: How Green Techniques Can Boost Your Business

Green construction techniques bring many benefits to your business from allowing you to be more energy efficient to improving productivity within your workforce.

Demand for green buildings has no intention of slowing down as attitudes toward creating a more sustainable future are continuing to grow. Therefore by taking advantage of this consumer shift now, you can propel your construction business forward.

What’s more, despite higher upfront costs, the long term benefits outweigh this initial investment. By employing green construction techniques in your next project, you are putting your business in good stead for the future.

Regardless of which techniques you choose to use in your business, having the correct tools is essential to maintain client satisfaction. At YardLink, we supply a range of equipment to suit the requirements of your next project. From skips to minimise waste to large diggers to keep your site neat and tidy, we have everything you could possibly need. What’s more, we’re a trusted local plant and tool hire company and are committed to delivering the best possible service. For more information or to find out how we can benefit your business, get in touch with a member of our team.

In any construction project, a variety of different materials are used. This includes, but is not limited to bricks, wall coverings, glass, plasterboards, plastic, and concrete.

This means there are a lot of opportunities for construction sites to recycle and contribute to a more sustainable planet. Construction Managers need to understand the importance of recycling and encourage this among their workforce. By making simple yet effective changes to your operations you can ensure more waste is correctly disposed of. Furthermore, recycling helps construction sites comply with environmental legislation and restrictions on what can be sent to landfill.

In this blog post we’ll identify why recycling construction waste is so important to reduce our carbon footprint. We’ll also look at what construction waste can be recycled to help construction workers separate materials on site.

Why is Recycling Construction Waste Important?

To sustain the future existence of our planet, we need to be more aware of our impact on the environment.

Humans generate a lot of rubbish in our everyday lives and we need to think about how this waste is going to be correctly disposed of. Materials can take hundreds of years to decompose and cause huge environmental damage. This includes polluting nearby water sources and producing methane which contributes to the greenhouse effect.

Incinerating waste products is equally as damaging to the environment as the burning process releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. This results in the killing of wildlife and is further harming the planet.

If we want to sustain a healthy planet then we need to consider better ways of disposing of our rubbish. Recycling is key in the construction industry where large amounts of materials are used and disposed of on a daily basis.

What Construction Waste Can I Recycle?

When it comes to construction sites, there are vast amounts of different materials that are used depending on the project.

Just think about the number of construction projects that are completed and the different requirements of each.

Some buildings feature large amounts of glass, others have cladding or wood panelling, others are constructed using traditional brick. The list goes on.

This poses the question to construction workers about what materials can actually be recycled?

Bricks

You might be surprised to hear that bricks have a lifespan of 200 years.

You can use bricks that have been previously used in the construction of walls, paving, and infrastructure in your new building project. Alternatively, you could also sell them to companies who deal with reclaimed materials.

Brick waste is often a result of items that have been damaged during unloading, storing and cutting, or due to companies over ordering on the quantities they need.

Even if bricks are slightly damaged or less ‘perfectly’ shaped, they still have lots of uses and should not go to waste.

You could break them down to use them in landscaping projects or to produce new bricks and building blocks.

By recycling bricks you’re contributing to a more sustainable planet. A great deal of of carbon emissions are produced from extracting, producing, manufacturing, and transporting new building materials.

However, by using pre-made materials, you’re reducing a lot of these negative impacts whilst also cutting down on landfill waste.

Plastic

On a construction site, plastic is mainly used in the pipework, windows, wall coverings, and floorings.

However, a large amount of plastic also comes from workers’ lunches! The packaging of sandwiches, pasta pots, crisps, and drinks is a huge contributing factor to the amount of plastic waste.

There are a range of plastics that can be recycled including polystyrene, PVC, and polypropylene.

Reused plastic waste makes a fantastic building material as it’s strong, durable, lightweight, and waterproof, which are key properties when working in construction.

These properties enable plastic to be used in a range of different materials including roof tiles, concrete, indoor insulation, bricks, fences, and carpeting.

By finding a new home for used plastic you’re reducing the amount of waste that ends up in a landfill or floating in our beautiful sea.

The disposal of plastic is a global problem as it is being discarded on a worldwide scale. The environment is unable to keep up with the rate at which humans are disposing of this material which causes harm to living beings.

Glass

Most glass waste is produced from demolition and refurbishment projects.

Instead of throwing this glass away, it can be used in decorative materials and insulation as well as being a fluxing agent in the manufacturing of bricks.

Recovered glass is rarely reused into glass products but is often crushed together with other building materials.

In the construction industry, this has various uses, as when glass is finely crushed it can be used to replace sand. When it is less finely crushed, it can also be used to replace gravel meaning it is a very versatile material.

What’s more, if you don’t recycle glass it can be expensive to dispose of through unsustainable methods. This is a result of this particular material being heavy, which is another reason why you should find an alternative use for it.

As well as the cost impact, it will also take thousands of years for glass to decompose.

Wood

Sources of this type of waste in the construction industry includes pallets, crates, beams, windows, door frames, floorboards, and panelling. There tends to be large quantities of wood on a construction site so understanding the importance of recycling this material is key.

In fact construction sites are the biggest contributors to wood wastage overall.

The good thing is most types of timber can be recycled as long as construction workers separate the reusable wood from the low quality, contaminated wood.

At a recycling plant, the waste wood will be shredded down into various sizes depending on the end use of the material and its future use.

Large pieces of recycled wood are used to make different furnishings whilst small wood fibres can be used to make products such as animal bedding.

By recycling wood, by using a specific wood waste skip, you’re helping reduce the amount of trees that need to be cut down to produce this material. As a result this reduces water and air pollution and also redirects wood waste away from landfill sites.

Concrete

In the early stages of a construction site, paths, driveways, and other concrete structures are usually demolished to make way for a new building.

This leaves contractors and construction workers with large quantities of this dense material to dispose of.

Fortunately, concrete can be recycled and reused for lots of different purposes. In the recycling process, it is crushed down into small particles meaning it can be used in lots of the same ways as new materials including gravel.

Some of the uses of old concrete include driveways, walkways, landscaping, and other outdoor hard surfaces.

There are many environmental benefits to recycling concrete including reducing disposal and tipping fees, as well as cutting down on transportation costs. This is due to the fact that the old concrete can usually be reused close to the demolition site.

Using recycled concrete instead of other materials such as gravel reduces the need to mine and transport this material as you’re using something that already exists.

What is a Skip Used for?

Skips are a fantastic way of recycling waste and are an environmentally friendly way of disposing rubbish, especially when you’re working on a building or construction site you will have large volumes of waste to clear.

Skips can hold vast quantities of construction and demolition materials as well as garden waste and other types of litter. By hiring a skip it allows you to clear a lot of waste without making multiple trips. This contributes to improved site efficiency and is more cost effective as you can dispose of rubbish in one go.

Construction debris may come from a demolition site or building renovation where large quantities of materials are used and disposed of.

At YardLink we provide a range of skips in different sizes to suit the needs of your project. Our skip hire services offer an effective solution when it comes to clearing your construction site, whether you’re carrying out a kitchen refit or completing a loft conversion.

From 4 yard skips to 16 yard variants, we have your project covered. And with a nationwide network of trusted, skip hire companies, you can be confident you’re receiving the best service.

Give us a call or send us an enquiry to take advantage of our products.

Is Skip Hire Environmentally Friendly?

Skip hire is an environmentally friendly way of disposing of large quantities of rubbish.

More and more skip hire companies understand the importance of recycling different materials and products to avoid them ending up in landfill.

By sorting through waste and allocating it to the correct recycling plant, skip hire companies are contributing to a healthier environment. They will try to recycle as much waste as possible but there are some stages the waste must go through first.

• Sorting – Skips carry a whole range of materials, especially in construction where lots of items are used and disposed of. At this stage of the process, the items are taken back to the suppliers site where they go through and separate items into different categories.
• Treatment and Processing – This essentially prepares items for the final recycling stage. Each waste category is treated by type to ensure items are ready for their intended use. For example, building rubble will be crushed and soiled with be screened to remove large lumps and pieces of debris.
• Disposal – At this stage, processed waste can be recycled. Depending on the item, it will be sent to specialist companies for them to make different products. For example, metal can be shipped to manufacturers to be reused and timber can be processed for a range of different applications.

At YardLink, our range of skips have plenty of space!

By offering different sized variants, you can choose the best option for your construction site. Our 8 yard skip holds between 60-80 black bags so there is plenty of room for unwanted construction materials.

Plus, we can even deliver your skip on the same or next day so you’re not waiting around or delaying the project.

We also provide skip covers and lights to ensure your skip is protected from different weather conditions. A skip cover also keeps your skip safe especially if you have pieces of broken debris which are stacked high. This poses a risk to the public as debris could fly out and be dangerous.

What Can I Put into a Skip?

When hiring a skip, you need to be aware of what can and can’t go inside. Although skip hire is an effective way of clearing waste there are limitations when it comes to filling up your skip. The Environment Agency has also recently withdrawn regulatory position Statement 250 which carries implications for how construction projects manage their environmental responsibilities.

People often fall under the misconception that every piece of waste is suitable for a skip and just throw it all in. However, there are some hazardous items that must never be disposed of in this way.

This is because these items have been classified by health and safety regulations to be harmful to the environment.

Before arranging a quote and hiring a skip for your project you need to understand what is and isn’t allowed to be thrown inside.

Items which should never go in a skip include TV’s, computer monitors, asbestos, tyres, fluorescent tubes, fridges, paint tins, plasterboard, batteries, gas cylinders, oil, petrol, and medical waste.

How to Choose a Skip

When it comes to hiring a skip there can be lots of things to consider.

For example the nature and size of your project is important as this will determine what kind of skip you need. There’s also the option of roll on roll off skips which require wider access on site but hold a lot more waste than a traditional, general waste skip. This is an ideal option for a construction manager who has large amounts of waste to dispose of.

Construction Waste Disposal: The Importance of Recycling

Construction sites produce large amounts of waste that needs to be correctly disposed of.

From glass, bricks, plastic, wood, and concrete, these sites rely on a variety of different materials when completing projects. Whether you have a major construction contract or are undertaking a large refit, hiring a skip is an important part of site waste management.

This provides contractors with a huge opportunity to protect the environment by recycling unwanted items that would otherwise end up in landfills.

So next time you’re disposing of materials, consider the environmental impact of your choices and be more conscious about the need to recycle.

Skip hire offers a cost effective solution when it comes to recycling and there are lots of different options and sizes to suit the needs of your project.