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DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL SCIENCE FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCE
Annotated bibliography of waste minimisation, recycling and reuse issues in the construction industry.
This document is an annotated bibliography that provides a list of relevant publications, focusing on North American documents which address various aspects of material resource use and disposal in construction. The aim is to provide a list of important documents sorted into the following categories:
1. Why Zero Waste? 2. Policy and Initiatives 3. Deconstruction Documents 4. Case Studies 5. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle 6. Products 7. Best Practice
Some documents appear in more than one category where they have a wider relevance
This document has been prepared by Deniz Ergun and Joe Earle MASc candidates in building science at Ryerson University under the supervision of Dr Mark Gorgolewski.
350 Victoria Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5B 2K3 Tel 416-979 5360 Fax 416 979 5353 E-mail [email protected] www.ryerson.ca
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1. Why Zero Waste? Blacksmith Institute (2011). The World’s Worst Toxic Pollution Problems, Report 2011.
Retrieved from http://www.worstpolluted.org/files/FileUpload/files/2011/Worlds-‐Worst-‐Toxic-‐Pollution-‐Problems-‐2011-‐Report.pdf
This report discusses the top ten annual toxic pollution problems in the world. It attempts to quantify the human health impact of source industries and the specific pollutants that they create. The goal is to create awareness of the economic and societal impact of pollution, and to encourage the funding and implementation of clean-‐up activities. This paper is relevant to the goals of zero waste because it addresses the primary pollution caused by the extraction of materials for other processes. It attempts to open the eyes of those not witnessing firsthand the pollution created by modern lifestyle demands.
Metro Vancouver, (2011). National Zero Waste Marketing Council: Zero Waste Challenge, Executive Summary.
Retrieved from Metrovancouver.org
This document outlines the goals of the Metro Vancouver council to organize a national campaign for all municipalities to increase the amount of reuse and recycling within their municipalities. By combining resources amongst municipalities they aim to improve the overall effectiveness of such campaigns and also increase the exposure across all regions. Solutions include national campaigns that are consistent across the country, have one united voice and effectively communicate the importance of waste reduction. Reducing waste in municipalities will reduce costs, enhance the environment, and help to achieve the goals of a zero waste campaign.
Waste Online. History of Waste and Recycling Information Sheet.
Retrieved from http://dl.dropbox.com/u/21130258/resources/InformationSheets/HistoryofWaste.htm
This webpage provides a brief chronology of waste from 3000 BC to pre-‐industrial times and into the present, highlighting important historical events including regulations and laws around the world. The page discusses the history of waste from individual waste bins from the late 1800’ to the present, and how this changing content of waste bins has changed the world. It finishes with various references for further information and a section titled “what you can do” with some guidance on how to make an impact on personal waste creation.
Lynch, K. (1990). Wasting Away. Sierra Club books, San Francisco.
This book provides a brief history of waste and how the human impact plays a major role in the environment. It also provides a brief outline of where humanity is going and the potentials that exist for both eliminating the amount of waste and ultimately the idea of waste as we know it. The author defines pollution: "pollution occurs when the nutrient cycle is disturbed: when waste products are introduced that by their type, or their rate of production, cannot be used by the organisms that are present." They go on to say that "man is unique because he makes substances that are poisonous to all living things." It is an excellent book for
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understanding the dominant ideas of waste and providing inspiration and ideas for changing the mindset of our wasteful ways.
Alberta Environment, (No date). Construction & Demolition Waste Reduction Program.
http://environment.alberta.ca/documents/Construction-‐Demolition-‐program-‐backgrounder.pdf
This is a report on the proposal for the Alberta provincial construction and demolition waste reduction program. The proposal includes three main components: government leadership, disposal bans on certain materials, and a deposit-‐refund program. Representatives from the commercial and residential construction industries, non-‐governmental organizations, and municipal and provincial government organizations collaborated to form the concepts for the proposal.
2. Policy and Initiatives City of New York Department of Design and Construction, (2003). Construction and Demolition Waste Manual.
Retrieved from http://www.nyc.gov/html/ddc/downloads/pdf/waste.pdf
This document has the goal of aiding builders and designers in the reduction, recycling and reuse of construction and demolition waste and the diversion of such waste from landfills. It is another example of a major North American city attempting to guide and adapt the resource management policies and actions of its citizens and companies that operate within their jurisdiction. The document provides a general overview of waste management pathways in NYC, as well as strategies for implementation for designers, builders and the Department of Design and Construction to affect change in these avenues. This is relevant to the goals of net zero waste in construction because it provides best practice guidelines for various stakeholders attempting to address the problem of construction and demolition waste in one of the largest cities in the USA.
Metro Vancouver, (2011). National Zero Waste Marketing Council: Zero Waste Challenge Executive Summary.
Retrieved from Metrovancouver.org
This document outlines the goals of the Metro Vancouver council to organize a national campaign for all municipalities to increase the amount of reuse and recycling within their municipalities. By combining resources amongst municipalities they aim to improve the overall effectiveness of such campaigns and also increase the exposure across all regions. Solutions include national campaigns that are consistent across the country, have one united voice and effectively communicate the importance of waste reduction. Reducing waste in municipalities will reduce costs, enhance the environment, and help to achieve the goals of a zero waste campaign.
Ontario Electronic Stewardship, (2011). End-‐of-‐Life Technology: Do Policies and Plans on E-‐waste Make a Difference to Your Business?
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Retrieved from http://recycleyourelectronics.ca/Office/Library/WhitePapers/OP-‐1009_FSI-‐White-‐Paper-‐Report-‐June29_web.pdf
This paper was prepared by Ontario Electronic Stewardship to demonstrate that E-‐waste planning helps businesses save money, creates more environmentally responsible organizations, and helps create jobs. It includes a survey of more than 400 Ontario businesses that addressed the issues of e-‐waste and the growing societal and environmental challenge that it poses. It provides information on how to appropriately deal with this type of waste, best practices and a list of electronics that can be recycled within the province of Ontario. This paper addresses a key resource that contributes major amounts of waste to landfill each year that could potentially be recycled or reused.
Alberta, (no date). Too Good to Waste: MAKING CONSERVATION A PRIORITY
Retrieved from http://environment.gov.ab.ca/info/library/7822.pdf
This article outlines the reasons and activities and outcomes of the province of Alberta moving towards the goal of zero waste. Alberta, at the time of this report and based on 2004 data from Stats Canada, had the highest kg/capita of waste disposed of all Canadian provinces. The report features three main outcomes and a variety of actions that broadly describe how the government of Alberta expects change to occur within the province over time. This is important because it demonstrates how governments of all sizes recognize the importance of waste reduction and wasted products as a resource with the target of zero waste as the ultimate goal.
Ontario Ministry of the Environment, (2009). From Waste to Worth: The Role of Waste Diversion in the Green Economy.
Retrieved from http://www.downloads.ene.gov.on.ca/envision/env_reg/er/documents/2009/WDA%20Ministers%20Report.pdf
This report outlines the review that was done of Ontario’s Waste Diversion Act 2002. Various recommendations from industry and government are considered based on stakeholder meetings and consultations that led to the production of the report. The report makes recommendations for the way forward to enable industry to thrive from the diversion of waste and to not be hindered by extensive regulations. They emphasize the need for strong regulations but with freedom of variation within different industries. It is an overview of all waste diversion in the province and not construction specific but it provides a valuable resource for understanding how and why the province of Ontario is where it is with waste diversion and 3R (reduce, reuse, recycle) programs.
Jeffery, C. (2011). Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling: A Literature Review.
Retrieved from http://www.dal.ca/content/dam/dalhousie/pdf/sustainability/Construction_Demolition_Waste_Recycling.pdf
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This literature review outlines a wide variety of policies and practices from North America and Europe. It focuses on the products that are being dealt with successfully and highlights successful initiatives that are transferable to other regions. It has a particular focus on the Halifax region since the paper was written at Dalhousie University and the authors strive to implement the changes as much as possible to the local region. This is an excellent and up to date resource for finding more information on policy and practices with construction and demolition waste around the western world.
Recycing Council of Ontario (2005). Let’s Climb Another Molehill – An Examination of Construction, Renovation & Demolition (CRD) Waste Reduction in Canada & Associated Greenhouse Gas Emission Impacts.
Retrieved from https://www.rco.on.ca/uploads/File/projects/completed/Molehill/RC_Projects-‐Molehill-‐Rpt.pdf
The “Molehill” project examined the composition, generation and management practices of construction, renovation and demolition (CRD) wastes and activities, as well as the regulations and markets that affect them. Research was completed in collaboration with project and site stakeholders from fifteen case studies in the Toronto region. Objectives included testing the application of on-‐site Waste Management Action Plans to determine their effects on project management, specifically relating to waste diversion. The key outcome of the project was progress towards development of an “on-‐site” tool, targeted at stakeholders involved in managing CRD activities.
Envionmental Careers Organization, (2010). Solid Waste Management: Labour Market Research Study 2010.
Retrieved from http://www.eco.ca/pdf/solid_waste_report_NOV2010.pdf
Environmental Careers Organization (ECO) labour market research study investigates current environmental skill and labour trends within the environmental profession and provides up-‐to-‐date, timely and relevant insights that can be applied in policy, business, and educational contexts. This report addresses the size, scope and general industry profile and outlook for the solid waste management industry within Canada. Challenges of the future and opportunities for leadership and development are discussed in terms of how to improve on waste management practices and policies from both an employer and employee perspective.
Canadian Home Builders Association, (2010). CHBA Policy Position on Construction and Demolition Waste Management and Extended Producer Responsibility.
Retrieved from http://www.chba.ca/uploads/policy%20archive/2010/epr&wastemanagementpolicyposition-‐mar3-‐10.pdf
This report outlines the position of the Canadian Home Builders Association on strategies and regulatory mechanisms needs to increase waste diversion. The issues of construction, renovation/retrofit, and demolition waste from residential buildings and communities are the focus of this report. As well, this report comes as a response to the 2009 approval for the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment’s (CCME) to develop a Canada-‐Wide Action Plan for Extended Producer Responsibility, offering consultation for the
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development and execution of effective waste management policies.
Saotome, T.(2007). Development of Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling in Ontario.
Retrieved from: http://msep.mcmaster.ca/epp/publications/Development_of_C&D_recycling_in_Ontario.pdf
A research report for the School of Engineering Practice, McMaster University, this paper aims to identify the barriers for recycling gypsum in Ontario, Canada. Critical barriers outlined in this report include the ineffectiveness of Ontario’s 3R’s Regulation and low landfill tipping fees. The Ontario regulatory framework for gypsum is compared to the Japanese framework to give context, comparison, and recommendations to increase recycling rates.
Sinclair, R. Natural Resources Canada, (2006). An Analysis of Resource Recovery Opportunities in Canada and the Projection of Greenhouse Gas Emission Implications.
Retrieved from: http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/sites/www.nrcan.gc.ca.minerals-‐metals/files/pdf/mms-‐smm/busi-‐indu/rad-‐rad/pdf/rrd2-‐eng.pdf
Funded by the Enhanced Recycling, Action Plan 2000 this reports quantifies and characterizes materials in Canada that are disposed of but can, in fact, be recycled. The second primary focus of this report is to develop recovery projects and their associated positive environment implications. This report highlights statistics on construction, renovation, and demolition waste, examining disposal and diversion patterns by province and territory.
Sonnevera International Corporation, (2006). Construction, Renovation and Demolition Waste Materials: Opportunities for Waste Reduction and Diversion.
Retrieved from: http://www.environment.gov.ab.ca/info/library/7703.pdf
This report analyzes a variety of tools that can be applied in the province of Alberta to shape the province’s construction and demolition waste reduction program. The report provides extensive review of five waste related categories: Voluntary mechanisms, mechanisms that Influence Design, Financial mechanisms, and Regulatory mechanisms. The conclusions of this report provides recommendations on the most relevant and critical areas to form the framework for new regulatory mechanisms.
Alberta Environment. (No date). Construction & Demolition Waste Reduction Program.
Retrieved from: http://environment.alberta.ca/documents/Construction-‐Demolition-‐program-‐backgrounder.pdf
This is a report on the program proposal for the Alberta provincial construction and demolition waste reduction program. The proposal includes three main components: government leadership, disposal bans on certain materials, and a deposit-‐refund program. Representatives from the commercial and residential construction industries, non-‐governmental organizations, and municipal and provincial government organizations collaborated to form the concepts for the proposal.
Steward, C., & Baum, S. S., (2011). Structuring Research for “Design for Deconstruction”.
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Retrieved from: http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=structuring%20research%20for%20“design%20for%20deconstruction”.&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCMQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fciteseerx.ist.psu.edu%2Fviewdoc%2Fdownload%3Fdoi%3D10.1.1.195.573%26rep%3Drep1%26type%3Dpdf&ei=NHFrUJmoLpT0qwGV0YDwDw&usg=AFQjCNGgUfzg6NTPCpqSUGvRl72lk7uSaw
This paper is a conference proceeding from the Deconstruction and Building Materials Reuse Conference in 2011. It outlined the proposal for the Nebraska Center for Sustainable Construction (NCSC) regarding their goals to promote deconstruction as a sustainable alternative to demolition. This proposal looks at making deconstruction mainstream at a national level, indicating the structure of further research strategies that will allow for the development of ideas in deconstruction.
AECOM Canada Ltd., & SCRD Infrastructure Services Department, (2011). Solid Waste Management Plan – The Foundation for Zero Waste Plan – Final Draft.
Retrieved from: http://www.scrd.ca/files/File/Infrastructure/Solid%20Waste/SWMP%20Final%20Report%20Proofed%2010-‐31-‐11%20w%20AppB%20WEB.pdf
The Sunshine Coast Regional District included zero waste into their 2009 development of a new Regional Solid Waste Management Plan. The plan sets to out-‐do the regions 2005 achievement of 50% waste reductions by outlining a strategy that works towards zero waste in the next five years (by 2016, it is projected to divert 69% of waste from landfill). Although this report draws on a broader scope of waste, it provides an excellent source for information on zero waste management plan development and implementation in Canada.
3. Deconstruction Documents Falk, B. & Guy, B. (2007). Unbuilding: Salvaging the Architectural Treasures Unwanted Houses. Taunton Press., Newton, CT.
This book is an excellent resource for understanding how and why to salvage buildings which are slated for demolition. Companies that are doing this work are profiled and project success stories are demonstrated throughout. This is an important and valuable service since there are many buildings torn down before they are required and even those that need to be destroyed can provide valuable materials and components to new construction projects. Unbuilding outlines how and why to dismantle a building into its individual components and also what is being done and how more can be done with these materials once they are salvaged and separated.
Institute of Civil Engineers. (2008). Demolition Protocol.
Retrieved from: http://www.ice.org.uk/getattachment/eb09d18a-‐cb12-‐4a27-‐a54a-‐651ec31705f1/Demolition-‐Protocol-‐2008.aspx
This a report from the global organization of Institute of Civil Engineers aimed at policy makers. It is a follow up to the 2003 ICE Demolition Protocol, with more emphasis and guidance to reducing, reusing (building and materials), recycling, and creating waste from energy from
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materials used in buildings. This report offers a framework to develop waste diversion, outlining stakeholders roles, verification techniques, justification, and process-‐driven strategies.
Guy, B., Shell, S. (2002) Design for Deconstruction and Material Reuse.
Retrieved from: http://www.deconstructioninstitute.com/files/downloads/75508728_DesignforDeconstructionPaper.pdf
This paper is the introduction into designing buildings so that they promote deconstruction at the end of their lifetime. It is a proceeding from the 2002 CIB International Council for Research and Innovation in Building Construction, Meeting on Design for Deconstruction and Materials Reuse. Examples and ‘lessons from the site’ are used to provide practical tips and guidance so that building and product designers consider the whole life cycle or the building or product at the early design stages.
Guy, B., & Gibeau, E. (2003). A Guide to Deconstruction.
Retrieved from: http://www.deconstructioninstitute.com/files/learn_center/45762865_guidebook.pdf
A Guide to Deconstruction is a comprehensive overview of best practices and strategies in regards to deconstruction. This guide is published by the Deconstruction Institute, a United States based resource and education focused initiative. It is aimed at professionals involved in a deconstruction project or in the reclaimed and reselling of building materials.
Falk, R. (2002) Wood-‐Framed Building Deconstruction -‐ A Source of Lumber for Construction?
Retrieved from: http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/pdf2002/falk02a.pdf
In this brief paper, Falk provides an overview of the wood resources available in residential building in the United States. Falk argues that the reclamation of wood is a sustainable alternative to harvesting and processing virgin resources and that deconstruction is the best tool for salvaging wood resources. Falk also discusses the financial, practical, and technical limitations and barriers of the current reuse industry, suggesting that more attention and research is needed in this field.
O’Brien, E. (2006). Life Cycle Analysis of the Deconstruction of Military Barracks: A Case Study at FT. McClellan, Anniston, Alabama.
This document is a master’s thesis from University of Florida which compares the amount of manual deconstruction and mechanical demolition of a United States military barracks using lifecycle analysis to determine which has the least impact on the environment. Data was collected by the on-‐site deconstruction/demolition team through surveys and by lifecycle inventory data available for demolition and transportation machinery. The results indicated that the 40% -‐ 100% manual deconstruction where materials were reused in a 20 mile radius had the lowest lifecycle assessment score, suggesting it was the most environmentally benign strategy.
Steward, C., & Baum, S. S.(2011). Structuring Research for “Design for Deconstruction”.
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Retrieved from: http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=structuring%20research%20for%20“design%20for%20deconstruction”.&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCMQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fciteseerx.ist.psu.edu%2Fviewdoc%2Fdownload%3Fdoi%3D10.1.1.195.573%26rep%3Drep1%26type%3Dpdf&ei=NHFrUJmoLpT0qwGV0YDwDw&usg=AFQjCNGgUfzg6NTPCpqSUGvRl72lk7uSaw
This paper is a conference proceeding from the Deconstruction and Building Materials Reuse Conference in 2011. It outlined the proposal for the Nebraska Center for Sustainable Construction (NCSC) regarding their goals to promote deconstruction as a sustainable alternative to demolition. This proposal looks at making deconstruction mainstream at a national level, indicating the structure of further research strategies that will allow for the development of ideas in deconstruction.
4. Case Studies Blacksmith Institute (2011). The World’s Worst Toxic Pollution Problems, Report 2011.
Retrieved from http://www.worstpolluted.org/files/FileUpload/files/2011/Worlds-‐Worst-‐Toxic-‐Pollution-‐Problems-‐2011-‐Report.pdf
This report discusses the top ten annual toxic pollution problems in the world. It attempts to quantify the human health impact of source industries and the specific pollutants that they create. The goal is to create awareness of the economic and societal impact of pollution, and to encourage the funding and implementation of clean-‐up activities. This paper is relevant to the goals of zero waste because it addresses the primary pollution caused by the extraction of materials for other processes. It attempts to open the eyes of those not witnessing firsthand the pollution created by modern lifestyle demands.
Gold, E. (No Date). Developing Construction and Demolition Waste Recovery in Philadelphia.
Retrieved from (http://www.cricouncil.com/wp-‐content/uploads/2011/03/CD-‐Waste-‐Recovery-‐in-‐Philadelphia.pdf
This report was written for the Sustainable Business Network of Philadelphia in order to address the problem of construction and demolition waste, one hundred thousand tons of which originates in the City of Philadelphia. The report discusses how much of the waste could potentially be recycled or reused which would create local jobs, save the City of Philadelphia resources and money and help contribute to the City’s goal of being the “greenest city in America by 2015.” This is significant because it shows a major city attempting to change its view of construction waste and lead the way towards the goals of sustainable green future.
Phillips, D. (2010). Creative Houses from Reclaimed Stuff. Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/dan_phillips_creative_houses_from_reclaimed_stuff.html
This lecture and visual presentation by Dan Phillips shows various homes he has built in the southern United States. He builds entirely with recycled and reclaimed materials to create innovative and creative designs. He argues that nature is not as orderly as we desire our subdivisions and houses to be and that we must embrace randomness and differences in our designs if we are to get over addiction to constantly new products in our homes. Building
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entirely with reclaimed and recycled materials Dan Phillips has become a successful home builder who uses ‘waste’ resources as his primary building materials.
Bahamon, A., and Sanjines, M.C., (2010). Rematerial: from Waste to Architecture. New York W. W. Norton & Company.
This book highlights the reuse and repurposing of construction and other waste into architectural successes. It profiles projects from all over the world and focuses on a wide variety of products and designs, providing schematic drawings , descriptions of how a project succeeded in utilizing the waste products and of how the material was repurposed. The focus is on institutional projects, housing, landscaping, interior design, and multipurpose spaces. This book is an excellent resources for providing inspiration and ideas to builders and designers looking to reuse and recycle useful waste products.
Van hinte, E, Jongert, J. and Peeren, C. (2007). Superuse: Constructing New Architecture by Shortcutting Material Flows. 010 Publishers, Rotterdam.
This book and associate web site (www.superuse.org) provides many examples of what the authors call Superuse, ‘the reuse and creative construction of buildings by materials that are in their second or third life iteration.’ The book is filled with examples from recycling diapers for the super absorbent polymers that will not biodegrade in landfills, to recycled tires and asphalt being reused. They also created the idea of the 'harvest map' which is a general map of the area surrounding a construction site identifying potential materials to be reclaimed, reused or salvaged. This map can help to lower the transportation costs associated with reusing building components. It is a practical and inspiring book about building new buildings with surplus or otherwise waste materials.
Recycing Council of Ontario (2005). Let’s Climb Another Molehill – An Examination of Construction, Renovation & Demolition (CRD) Waste Reduction in Canada & Associated Greenhouse Gas Emission Impacts.
Retrieved from https://www.rco.on.ca/uploads/File/projects/completed/Molehill/RC_Projects-‐Molehill-‐Rpt.pdf
The “Molehill” project examined the composition, generation and management practices of construction, renovation and demolition (CRD) wastes and activities, as well as the regulations and markets that affect them. Research was completed in collaboration with project and site stakeholders from fifteen case studies in the Toronto region. Objectives included testing the application of on-‐site Waste Management Action Plans to determine their effects on project management, specifically relating to waste diversion. The key outcome of the project was progress towards development of an “on-‐site” tool, targeted at stakeholders involved in managing CRD activities.
CH2M HILL Canada Limitied. (2000). Construction, Renovation and Demolition (CRD) Waste Characterization Study.
Retrieved from: http://www.recyclecddebris.com/rCDd/Resources/Documents/CSICanada01.pdf
This landmark report was prepared for the CRD Waste Advisory Committee, Alberta
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Environment as a tool in developing recommendations for future policy and regulation changes to Alberta’s construction, renovation, and demolition waste. As such, the report provides data on Alberta’s building related waste stream through survey of 52 landfills. This study quantified the amount and types of waste related to the construction industry sent to landfill and the reported statistics are cited in current literature.
Kernan, P. (2002). OLD to NEW, Salvaged Materials in New Construction.
Retrieved from http://www.metrovancouver.org/about/publications/Publications/oldtonewdesignguidesalvmat08-‐1.pdf
This is the 3rd edition of the Greater Vancouver Regional District Policy and Planning Department design guide. The guide provides 10 case studies from Greater Vancouver that utilize reused materials. As well, the guide provides reference to typical approaches of building with reused materials and an overview of popular construction materials and their potential/markets for reuse.
Addis, W. (2006). Building with reclaimed components and materials : a design handbook for reuse and recycling. Earthscan.
This highly informative book reviews the design and construction implications of using reclaimed componentsand recycled-‐content materials in buildings from structure and foundations to building services and external works. The objective is both to minimise waste from construction and to reduce the impact of materials used in construction projects. The book reviews the key issues to address and provides case study examples
Public Architecture, Design for Reuse Primer
Retrieved from http://www.publicarchitecture.org/reuse/
This downloadable book explores in depth fifteen projects that have focused on using reclaimed materials in their construction. It identifies key issues and develops design guidance for how to approach design with reuse..
5. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle MacLeod, R., (No date). Utilizing Wood Waste From Construction, Renovation & Demolition and Urban Forestry.
Retrieved from http://forestecho.ca/wp-‐content/uploads/2012/01/Wood-‐v6.pdf
This paper examines wood waste in construction, renovation and demolition projects as well as urban forestry and provides direction on how to improve the reuse and recycling of materials that are destined for landfill. The report discusses how wood represents the largest portion of construction and demolition waste in Canada, generating more than 1 million tons annually, and that addressing this waste stream is extremely important to the goals of net zero waste in the construction industry. The problem of wood waste is discussed in the context of environmental and economic consequences, opportunities for utilization, and potential barriers to reuse and recycling.
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Construction Resource Initiative (2010). Gypsum Recycling in the National Capital Region.
Retrieved from http://www.cricouncil.com/wp-‐content/uploads/2011/03/CRI-‐Final-‐Report-‐July-‐6-‐10.pdf
This position paper presents the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the Construction Recycling Initiative (CRI) task group in 2010. The task group set out to examine the state of gypsum recycling in the National Capital Region, and to help turn the deplorable waste situation around. The goals of this report were to improve the region’s record on municipal waste diversion of material that is 100% recyclable.
Gratton, R., (2012). CRI Council Efficient & Safe Resource Questionnaire.
Retrieved from http://www.cricouncil.com/wp-‐content/uploads/2011/03/Preferable-‐Product-‐Questionnaire-‐.pdf
This publication by the Construction Resource Initiative seeks to provide guidance to consumers regarding how to make themselves aware of the origins and life cycle of the products they purchase and use. The preferable product questionnaire attempts to provide an objective method of testing or determining if a product is the most resource efficient option available. This is an extremely valuable tool for reducing waste and understanding how and why certain products are better, environmentally, than others, and so contributes to the goals of zero waste by presenting an objective non technical method of awareness for consumers.
Gorgolewski, M. (2010). Urban Salvation.
Retrieved from http://www.alternativesjournal.ca/articles/urban-‐salvation
This article in Alternatives Magazine discusses the opportunities for reuse, and recycling of discarded materials in construction and demolition projects. This waste makes up nearly 35% of the total waste stream in Canada, the majority of which could be recycled, reused, or repurposed in a new construction project. The article emphasizes that within the next 30 years there will be no option but to build with some of these recycled and reused materials because they will be exhausted as natural resources. Salvaging materials from landfill will become the norm. Various case studies are briefly presented which document success stories of buildings built with many reused and recycled materials, a necessary path for a zero waste future.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (2005) Market Valuation of Demolition and Salvage Materials. Public Works Technical Bulletin PWTB 200-‐1-‐26.
Retrieved from http://www.wbdg.org/ccb/ARMYCOE/PWTB/pwtb_200_1_26.pdf
The purpose of this Public Works Technical Bulletin is to provide information on evaluating salvage materials from construction and demolition (C&D) activities for recycling or reuse. This technical bulletin contains procedures, information, and resources that will enable interested parties to implement alternative strategies to conventional demolition and landfilling which are expensive and take up valuable and scarce landfill space. While much of the information pertains to the operation of army installations, the Army Corps of engineers provides a great deal of leadership in engineering and construction project across the USA.
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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (2003) Guidance for the Reduction of Demolition Waste Through Reuse and Recycling. Public Works Technical Bulletin PWTB 200-‐1-‐23.
Retrieved from http://www.wbdg.org/ccb/ARMYCOE/PWTB/pwtb_200_1_23.pdf
This technical bulletin from the US Army Corps of Engineers provides information on
how to reduce waste associated with demolition and renovation projects through reuse and recycling. The purpose is to provide guidance for recovering, reusing, and recycling building materials typically disposed of as demolition waste. Building deconstruction, salvage and recycling methods are discussed with the goal of reducing and diverting waste from landfill as well as providing guidance on evaluating specific project conditions and assessing the feasibility of deconstruction, reuse, and recycling method. This is a relevant document in terms of zero waste initiatives because it provides guidance on how to improve practices regarding resource management during building deconstruction.
Nisbet, M., Venta, G., & Foo, S. (No Date). Demolition and Deconstruction: Review of the Current Status of Reuse and Recycling of Building Materials.
Retrieved from: ftp://ftp.tech-‐env.com/pub/Retrofit/AWMA%20paper_WM1b.pdf
This report, written by government and private sector, examines the progress of waste diversion through recycling in Canada and the United States. Outlining the technical, economic, and political influences that promote and retard the development of the recycling industry in North America as compared to European countries. This report focuses on the recycling of five major building materials: concrete, steel, non-‐ferrous metals, gypsum, and wood. Key conclusions indicate that demolition management, government policy, and market drivers are all integral to achieving high material recovery rates.
Sinclair, R. Natural Resources Canada. (2006). An Analysis of Resource Recovery Opportunities in Canada and the Projection of Greenhouse Gas Emission Implications.
Retrieved from http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/sites/www.nrcan.gc.ca.minerals-‐metals/files/pdf/mms-‐smm/busi-‐indu/rad-‐rad/pdf/rrd2-‐eng.pdf
Funded by the Enhanced Recycling, Action Plan 2000 this reports quantifies and characterizes materials in Canada that are disposed but can, in fact, be recycled. The second primary focus of this report is to develop recovery projects and their associated positive environment implications. This report highlights statistics on construction, renovation, and demolition waste, examining disposal and diversion patterns by province and territory.
Verduga. (2004). Recycling of Construction Waste.
Recycling of Construction Waste is a Master’s thesis from the University of Calgary. The author examines the potential for a on-‐site waste management plan to reduce the amount of building material sent to landfill during the construction of the 6420 m2 medium rise building. Utilizing both on-‐site data collection as well as computer generated modeling, Verduga demonstrates that well designed waste management plans can be economically viable and have significant environmental benefits.
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CH2M HILL Canada Limitied. (2000). Construction, Renovation and Demolition (CRD) Waste Characterization Study.
Retrieved from http://www.recyclecddebris.com/rCDd/Resources/Documents/CSICanada01.pdf
This landmark report was prepared for the CRD Waste Advisory Committee, Alberta Environment as a tool to develop recommendations for future policy and regulation changes to Alberta’s construction, renovation, and demolition waste. As such, the report provides data on Alberta’s building related waste stream through a survey of 52 landfills. This study quantifies the amount and types of waste related to the construction industry that are sent to landfill.
Sonnevera International Corporation. (2006). Construction, Renovation and Demolition Waste Materials: Opportunities for Waste Reduction and Diversion.
Retrieved from: http://www.environment.gov.ab.ca/info/library/7703.pdf
This report analyzes a variety of tools that can be applied in the province of Alberta to shape the province’s construction and demolition waste reduction program. The report provides extensive review of five waste-‐reduction action areas: Voluntary Mechanisms, Mechanisms that Influence Design, Financial Mechanisms, and Regulatory Mechanisms. The conclusions of this report provide recommendations on the most relevant and critical areas to form framework for new regulatory mechanisms.
Falk, R., & McKeever, D. (2004). Recovering Wood for Reuse and Recycling, A United States Perspective.
Retrieved from http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/pdf2004/fpl_2004_falk001.pdf
This report provides a statistics outline of the wastage pattern for wood in the United States. The report provides a comprehensive overview of wood waste as well as construction and demolition waste, providing recovery and disposal rates for various qualities of wood. As well, the report covers current recycling and reuse activities and discusses future opportunities, barriers, and predicted trends.
Wardle, K. (2001). Factors Influencing the Expansion of the Used Building Material Sector in Southern British Columbia.
This document is a Master’s thesis from Dalhousie University which explores the state of the reuse industry in southern British Columbia through a survey of professionals and end users. The research identifies drivers for the reuse industry, outlines the success of marketing approaches, and determines the main barriers limiting the reuse industry.
Kernan, P. (2002). OLD to NEW, Salvaged Materials in New Construction.
Retrieved from http://www.metrovancouver.org/about/publications/Publications/oldtonewdesignguidesalvmat08-‐1.pdf
This is the 3rd edition of the Greater Vancouver Regional District Policy and Planning Department design guide. The guide provides 10 case studies from Greater Vancouver that utilize reused materials. As well, the guide provides reference to typical approaches of building
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with reused materials and an overview of popular construction materials and their potential/markets for reuse.
Addis, W. (2006). Building with reclaimed components and materials : a design handbook for reuse and recycling. Earthscan.
This highly informative book reviews the design and construction implications of using reclaimed componentsand recycled-‐content materials in buildings from structure and foundations to building services and external works. The objective is both to minimise waste from construction and to reduce the impact of materials used in construction projects. The book reviews the key issues to address and provides case study examples
6. Products McDonough, W., (2005). Cradle to Cradle Design [Video file].
Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/william_mcdonough_on_cradle_to_cradle_design.html
This lecture is by William McDonough, an architect and co-‐author of Cradle to Cradle. He calls into question the basic way in which we design our products and buildings. Following the principle that there is no waste in nature McDonough proposes a shift in how we create our products and is a leader in the goals of zero waste. Buildings and products should be designed to take into account “all children, all species, for all time.”
Leopardo Construction (2008) Smart Construction: Economical Building Solutions to offset soaring material prices.
Retrieved from http://ww1.prweb.com/prfiles/2008/08/14/203997/smartconstruction.pdf
This paper provides ten insider tips for building smarter, saving money, and getting the most out of a contractor. The continual rise of material costs is driving the prices of construction projects higher and this paper aims to help consumers to improve the efficiency of projects with a variety of cost saving recommendations. These recommendations include smarter choices for materials, green products and systems, buying in bulk and from local manufacturers. The ideas in the paper are relevant to the topic of zero waste in construction because they intend to change how consumers approach a project, encouraging a more proactive and involved approach to affect real change in individual projects; requiring greater responsibility of the contractors and developers on behalf of more aware consumers.
Trustee, W. (no date). Sustainable Building: A Materials Perspective, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Retrieved from http://www.cmhc-‐schl.gc.ca/en/inpr/bude/himu/coedar/upload/Sustainable-‐Building-‐A-‐Materials-‐Perspective.pdf
This CMHC publication addresses the area of ‘green’ building materials and how to access reliable information about individual products. Builders and designers require accurate information and this article assists them by highlighting information sources and tools that can help in the search. It also discusses the importance and environmental merits of structural and
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envelope materials on a life cycle basis. Finally it attempts to look at the broader questions of what constitutes ‘green’, and what sustainability means in the context of building design decisions and material choices. The choice of sustainable and durable materials is of the utmost importance in reducing waste over the lifetime of a building and thus is an important topic in the discussion of a zero waste initiative.
Terrachoice Group Inc. (2010). The Sins of Greenwashing: Home and Family addition.
Retrieved from http://sinsofgreenwashing.org/findings/greenwashing-‐report-‐2010/
The report is written based on researchers going into major retailers across North American, the United Kingdom and Australia and quantifying the products that make green claims and then categorizing them into verifiable and provable claims. The article outlines the dramatic increase in claims of “green” products. This article is important for understanding that there are a wide variety of claims made that may or may not be true regarding the environmentally responsible nature of products. Consumers can have a dramatic effect on how products are developed and manufactured but also need to understand that the labelling of products can be misleading and requires further investigation.
Phillips, D, (2010). Creative Houses from Reclaimed Stuff.
Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/dan_phillips_creative_houses_from_reclaimed_stuff.html
This lecture and visual presentation by Dan Phillips takes viewers through various homes he has built in the southern United States. He builds entirely with recycled and reclaimed materials to create innovative and creative designs. He argues that nature is not as orderly as we desire our subdivisions and houses to be and that we must embrace randomness and differences in our designs if we are to get over our addiction to consistently choosing new products. Building entirely with reclaimed and recycled materials, Dan Phillips has become a successful home builder who uses ‘waste’ as his primary building materials.
Van hinte, E, Jongert, J. and Peeren, C. (2007). Superuse: Constructing New Architecture by Shortcutting Material Flows. 010 Publishers, Rotterdam.
This book and associated web site (www.superuse.org) provides many examples of what the authors call Superuse, ‘the reuse and creative construction of buildings by materials that are in their second or third life iteration.’ The book is filled with examples including recycling diapers for the super absorbent polymers that will not biodegrade in landfills but can be reused as soil additives. They also created the idea of the 'harvest map' which is a general map of the area surrounding a construction site which shows potential materials that can be reclaimed, reused or salvaged. This map can help to lower the transportation costs associated with reusing building components. It is a practical and inspiring book about building new buildings with surplus or otherwise waste materials.
Schenk, R. (2009). The Outlook and Opportunity for Type III Environmental Product Declarations in the United States of America: A policy white paper.
Retrieved from http://www.lcacenter.org/pdf/Outlook-‐for-‐Type-‐III-‐Ecolabels-‐in-‐the-‐USA.pdf
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This white paper addresses the use of environmental product declarations (EPDs) which are becoming more popular around the world, and will create a legal barrier to trade for North American without the development EPD structure. EPDs are ecolabels that measure and disclose the environmental performance of products, much like a nutrition label. This report addresses the important role these labels can represent for consumer education and environmental protection based on required disclosure of the product’s lifecycle, from birth to final product. This is an important topic for resource and waste management because of the global nature of the economy and the increasing demand for environmentally responsible products.
Falk, R., & McKeever, D. (2004). Recovering Wood for Reuse and Recycling, A United States Perspective.
Retrieved from http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/pdf2004/fpl_2004_falk001.pdf
This report provides a statistics outline of wastage patterns for wood in the United States. The report provides a comprehensive overview of wood waste as well as construction and demolition waste, providing recovery and disposal rates for various qualities of wood. As well, the report covers current recycling and reuse activities and discusses future opportunities, barriers, and predicted trends.
Olson, B. D. (2011). Residential Building Material Reuse in Sustainable Construction.
Retrieved from https://research.wsulibs.wsu.edu:8443/xmlui/bitstream/handle/2376/3479/Olson_wsu_0251E_10257.pdf?sequence=1
This is a PhD thesis from Washington State University which examines residential building from a life cycle perspective and quantifies their average life spans based on the era they were constructed. Dr. Olson proposes that the lifetime of the building’s materials can be extended through reuse and that critical opportunities to maximize reuse should be identified. Hollow fasteners used to join dimension lumber are targeted as a key area to optimize reuse and thus the impact of fasteners on material damage is examined.
Gorgolewski, M., Straka, V., Edmonds, J. & Sergio, C. (2008) Facilitating Greater Reuse and Recycling of Structural Steel in the Construction and Demolition Process
Retrieved from http://www.arch.ryerson.ca/wp-‐content/uploads/2011/05/Gorgolewski-‐Reuse_steel_final_report.pdf
This is a report for a project at Ryerson University that aimed to develop a greater understanding of the materials flows in the steel construction industry and using this knowledge to provide tools that facilitate greater reuse and recycling of steel components. It includes some analysis of the potential carbon savings from steel reuse, and provides case studies and information papers to facilitate steel reuse in construction.
7. Best Practice McDonough, W., (2005). Cradle to Cradle Design [Video file].
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Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/william_mcdonough_on_cradle_to_cradle_design.html
This video lecture is by William McDonough, an architect and co-‐author of Cradle to Cradle. He calls into question the basic way in which we design our products and buildings. Following the principle that there is no waste in nature, McDonough proposes a shift in how we create our products and is a leader in the goals of zero waste. He argues that buildings and products should be designed to take into account “all children, all species, for all time.”
International Solid Waste Association (2011). Key Issue Paper on Waste Prevention, Waste Minimization and Resource Management.
Retrieved from http://www.cricouncil.com/wp-‐content/uploads/2011/03/ISWA_Key_issue_paper_prevention_final_01.pdf
This publication by the International Solid Waste Association addresses the multitude of changes that have taken place in the waste management industry in the past several decades. It proposes a way forward with an emphasis on changing our ideas of waste starting with considering all waste a potential resource. The report includes 9 potential instruments to drive change in waste prevention, minimization and resource management. This is significant to the CRI objectives because the report strives to change the fundamental view we have of waste from something to be discarded to something that has value as a resource.
City of New York Department of Design and Construction (2003). Construction and Demolition Waste Manual.
Retrieved from http://www.nyc.gov/html/ddc/downloads/pdf/waste.pdf
This document has the goal of aiding builders and designers in the reduction, recycling and reuse of construction and demolition waste and the diversion of such waste from landfills. It is an example of a major North American city attempting to guide and adapt the resource management policies and actions of its citizens and companies that operate within their jurisdiction. The document provides a general overview of waste management pathways in NYC, as well as implementation strategies for designers, builders and the Department of Design and Construction to affect change in these avenues. This is relevant to the goals of net zero waste in construction because it provides best practice guidelines for various stakeholders attempting to address the problem of construction and demolition waste in one of the largest cities in the USA.
Forsythe, P. (2007). Understanding the Drivers of Housing Demolition Method Selection: A Waste Management Perspective.
Retrieved from http://www.irbnet.de/daten/iconda/CIB18025.pdf
This paper outlines how demolition methods are selected for residential housing projects. The specific focus is on how the selection process positively or negatively affects the outcome of the waste diversion process. The aim is to improve waste management on these sites since a lot of valuable material is sent directly to landfill that might otherwise be usable in other parts of the construction industry as reused materials. A model is presented within the paper for improving and studying the waste recovery of such sites.
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Jeffery, C. (2011). Construction and demolition Waste recycling: a Literature review.
Retrieved from http://www.dal.ca/content/dam/dalhousie/pdf/sustainability/Construction_Demolition_Waste_Recycling.pdf
This literature review outlines a wide variety of policies and practices from North America and Europe. It focuses on the products that are being dealt with successfully and highlights successful initiatives that are transferable to other regions. It has a particular focus on the Halifax region since the paper was written at Dalhousie University and the authors strive to implement the changes as much as possible to the local region. This is an excellent and up to date resource for finding more information on policy and practices with construction and demolition waste around the western world.
United Nations Environmental Programme -‐ International Resource Panel. Decoupling Natural Resource Use and Environmental Impacts from Economic Growth.
Retrieved from http://www.unep.org/resourcepanel/decoupling/files/pdf/Decoupling_Factsheet_English.pdf
This brief factsheet describes resource decoupling, impact decoupling, relative decoupling and, finally, absolute reductions of resources use. The factsheet describes why decoupling is important in relation to resources and overall economic growth (ie. use of natural resources increased eight-‐fold but in the same time costs have decreased by 30%). This is not a sustainable way to manage resources. The factsheet finishes by outlining the problems decoupling can address, the challenges it can expect to encounter and also the potential of decoupling resources use from pure economic growth.
Architecture for Humanity (2006). Design Like You Give A Damn: Architectural Responses to Humanitarian Crisis. Metropolis books, Los Angeles.
This is a handbook for those committed to building a sustainable future. The book includes projects from all over the world with design solutions to alleviate problems such as lack of adequate housing, education, clean water, and renewable energy. Innovative products and materials are profiled and case studies of buildings designed with local products, and waste materials including design schematics. This book demonstrates ways that positive change can be affected in places in need through innovative ideas developed from around the world.
Nisbet, M., Venta, G., & Foo, S. (No Date). Demolition and Deconstruction: Review of the Current Status of Reuse and Recycling of Building Materials.
Retrieved from ftp://ftp.tech-‐env.com/pub/Retrofit/AWMA%20paper_WM1b.pdf
This report, written by government and private sector, examines the progress of waste diversion by recycling in Canada and the United States. The report outlines the technical, economic, and political influences that promote and retard the development of the recycling industry in North America as compared to European countries. This report focuses on recycling of five major building materials: concrete, steel, non-‐ferrous metals, gypsum, and wood. Key
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conclusions indicate that demolition management, government policy, and market drivers are all integral to achieving high material recovery rates.
Canadian Home Builders Association. (2010). CHBA Policy Position on Construction and Demolition Waste Management and Extended Producer Responsibility.
Retrieved from http://www.chba.ca/uploads/policy%20archive/2010/epr&wastemanagementpolicyposition-‐mar3-‐10.pdf
This report outlines the position of the Canadian Home Builders Association on strategies and regulatory mechanisms needed to increase waste diversion from landfill. The issues of construction, renovation/retrofit, and demolition waste from residential buildings and communities are the focus of this report. As well, this report comes as a response to the 2009 approval for the Canadian Council of Minister of the Environment (CCME) to develop a Canada-Wide Action Plan for Extended Producer Responsibility, offering consultation for the development and execution of effective waste management policies.
Public Work and Government Services Canada. (2000). The Environmentally Responsible Construction and Renovation Handbook.
Retrieved from http://www.tpsgc-‐pwgsc.gc.ca/biens-‐property/gd-‐env-‐cnstrctn/index-‐eng.html
This downloadable book gives a comprehensive guide to sustainable construction and renovation by Public Work and Government Services Canada. However, chapters 8 and 9 focus on the issue of construction, renovation, and demolition waste. Chapter 8 gives the context of the waste problem and outlines ideas for waste management strategies. While chapter 9 provides a more practical outline of cost-‐benefit and examples of successfully integrated waste management strategies.
Wimalasena, B.A.D.S. (2011). A Planning Tool for Construction Waste Management.
This document is a Doctor of Philosophy thesis from the University of Calgary, Department of Engineering which proposes a new planning tool for on-‐site waste management. The author uses a computer simulation model to determine the extent of construction waste generated on a construction project and uses cost-‐benefit parameters to determine the most effective waste management avenues. The model then simulates with the integration of waste management strategies and information from an on-‐site activity schedule. The integration of simulation with on-‐site schedule data is argued to increase the effectiveness and ease of waste management for construction professionals.
Industry Canada, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, and Supply Chain and Logistics Association of Canada. (No Date). Green Supply Chain Management: Manufacturing-‐ A Canadian Perspective.
Retrieved from http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/dsib-‐logi.nsf/vwapj/pg00032_eng.pdf/$file/pg00032_eng.pdf
This is a joint publication from Industry Canada, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, and Supply Chain and Logistics Association of Canada. The report synthesizes the Canadian manufacturing perspective of the future outlook for adopting corporate and environmental
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responsible practices. This report concludes that there are business benefits and discusses how all levels of business can financially benefit from Green Supply Chain Management.
Canadian Construction Association. (2001). A Best Practice Guide to Solid Waste Reduction.
Retrieved from: http://www.cca-‐acc.com/pdfs/en/members-‐only/cca81.pdf
A Standard Construction Document, the Canadian Construction Association published this report to provide industry members with useful advice on approaching construction, renovation, and demolition waste issues in Canada. The report outlines opportunities and barriers for waste diversion through the waste hierarchy for major construction materials. As well it provides tools and recommendations for waste management strategies and a background of the role of regulatory framework in promoting/demoting such strategies.