TLDR: article content at a glance:

• Construction and demolition waste (CDW) is a significant type of waste in the EU, with Sweden alone producing 14.2 million tons in 2020.
• The EU's Waste Framework Directive aims for at least 70% of CDW to be reused, recycled, or recovered by 2020.
• Construction sites can produce numerous types of hazardous waste including, but not limited to, explosive, oxidizing, flammable, and corrosive waste.
• Waste producers are accountable for ensuring their waste is properly treated, with effective waste management requiring thorough tracking and documentation.
• Transporting waste may necessitate notifications or permits based on the kind and quantity of waste, with different regulations for professional activities and third-party waste.
• Reporting to local authorities is mandatory for non-hazardous waste from professional activities that exceed certain amounts, while permits are needed for hazardous waste that exceeds specific quantities.
• Waste containing mercury, cyanide, cadmium, or a PCB product always require permits for transportation.
• Construction companies are instrumental in achieving sustainable waste management and recycling in the construction sector.
• Digital tools can simplify waste tracking and regulatory compliance, contributing to more sustainable practices. It is crucial to stay informed about the latest regulations and seek professional advice when necessary.

How does the EU regulate construction and demolition waste management?

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) constitutes a significant portion, approximately 35%, of the total waste produced in the European Union (EU). CDW encompasses various materials, including concrete, bricks, wood, glass, metals, and plastic, some of which may be hazardous, such as asbestos. Around 450 - 500 million tonnes of CDW are generated annually within the EU, encompassing the waste resulting from construction and demolition activities, including infrastructure and road maintenance.

Fortunately, well-established and accessible technologies, which are generally affordable, exist for the separation and recovery of CDW. It is important to note that the recycling and material recovery rates for CDW vary significantly across the EU, with some regions achieving less than 10% while others surpassing 90%.

To address this issue, the Waste Framework Directive established a target to increase the reuse, recycling, and recovery of CDW to a minimum of 70% by 2020. This directive emphasizes waste reduction during generation and encourages the adoption of selective demolition practices to facilitate the removal of hazardous substances. Moreover, it provides guidelines on CDW management through the Construction and Demolition Waste Management Protocol, as well as recommendations on pre-demolition audits. The Circular Economy Action Plan also encompasses the circular transformation of the construction sector.

How much construction waste is generated in Sweden?

The construction and real estate sectors generate substantial amounts of waste in Sweden. In 2020 alone, about 14.2 million tons of primary construction and demolition waste were produced, including over 0.6 million tons of hazardous waste. This accounts for 40% of the country's total waste and 19% of hazardous waste, excluding mining waste. While other industries also contribute to construction waste, their impact is minimal compared to the construction sector.

To address environmental concerns, the Swedish government has implemented measures and regulations to encourage responsibility and action within the construction industry. Many construction companies are now opting for environmental certification of their buildings, which signifies their commitment to reducing negative environmental impacts. Environmental certification requires meeting specific criteria for environmental impact while maintaining quality.

Reducing the quantity and hazardousness of construction and demolition waste is crucial to achieving Sweden's national environmental quality goals of a "Good Built Environment" and a "Toxic-Free Environment." The building owner holds primary responsibility for waste management. However, the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building, and Planning (Boverket) is also actively involved in reducing waste quantities and hazardousness in demolition waste.

Between 2018 and 2020, there was a noticeable increase of 1.8 million tons in the total amount of waste generated by the construction sector. It is important to note that these statistics only cover waste from companies within the SNI F41-43 construction industry and do not include waste from households or direct construction and demolition waste.

Furthermore, EU regulations specify that soil and stone materials reused on-site are not considered as part of the reported quantities. During the same period, there was also an increase in soil, dredging materials, and mineral waste resulting from construction and demolition activities. Unlike other environmental indicators from the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building, and Planning (Boverket), the total amount of construction and demolition waste has not been quantified from a life cycle perspective. This is due to the limited level of detail in waste statistics and the absence of a method to measure waste generation occurring abroad from the production of imported products. Additionally, waste from road and railway construction, as well as other facilities, is reported together as it has not been feasible to provide separate figures for these sectors.

Although the recycling rate for non-hazardous construction and demolition waste was estimated to be 53 percent in 2020, it is worth mentioning that the data basis for this estimation is uncertain. Notably, certain significant waste streams are not included for various reasons, particularly those where recycling rates are estimated to be very high, such as crushed concrete and asphalt, which are managed by smaller treatment facilities.

As part of the national environmental objective system, there are 24 interim objectives aimed at facilitating the achievement of overall environmental quality goals. One of these interim objectives specifically focuses on Increased Resource Efficiency in the Construction Sector. This objective sets a target that, by 2025, the annual weight percentage for preparatory reuse, material recycling, and other recovery of non-hazardous construction and demolition waste (excluding soil and stone) should reach at least 70 percent.

Key construction waste definitions and terminology

What is Construction and Demolition Waste?

Construction and demolition waste, as defined in Section 8 of Chapter 15 of the Swedish Environmental Code and the Waste Directive (Article 3.2c), encompasses waste generated from construction, demolition, and site works, including small-scale activities in private households. This waste category is regulated under Chapter 17 in Appendix 3 of the Waste Ordinance.

Ensuring proper management of construction and demolition waste is crucial for environmental sustainability and compliance with waste management regulations.

What is the definition of a waste producer?

The term "waste producer" refers to the entity responsible for generating waste, as well as the party that alters the nature or composition of the waste through pre-treatment, mixing, or other procedures, as outlined in Section 15, Article 4 of the Swedish Environmental Code.

According to Section 15, Article 11a of the Environmental Code, the original waste producer holds the following responsibilities unless otherwise specified by law, regulation, or agreement:

1. Ensuring that the waste undergoes a comprehensive treatment process in accordance with Section 10.
2. Bearing the costs associated with managing the produced waste.

To meet the requirements stated in Section 15, Article 11a of the Environmental Code, waste producers must possess knowledge about the type of waste that requires treatment and the most suitable method based on the waste hierarchy. An effective step towards acquiring this knowledge is to sort waste at its source to the greatest extent possible and appropriate.

What is the waste hierarchy?

Preventing waste creation is the primary objective outlined in both Swedish and European waste legislation. This aligns with the waste hierarchy, which prioritizes different methods of waste management to minimize environmental impact.

The waste hierarchy stands as follows:

1. Waste prevention
2. Reuse
3. Material recycling and biological treatment
4. Other forms of recycling, such as energy recovery
5. Disposal

It's important to note that exceptions to this hierarchy may sometimes be necessary due to technical, financial, or environmental reasons. According to the Swedish Environmental Code, waste refers to any matter or object that the bearer intends to dispose of or is mandated to dispose of.

Which waste treatment methods are there?

These are the most commonly used waste-treatment methods:

1. Material recycling: Waste is utilized as a substitute for other materials.

2. Biological treatment: Waste is processed through anaerobic digestion (without access to oxygen) or composting (with access to oxygen, known as aerobic treatment), which closes the ecocycle and returns nutrients to the soil.

3. Energy recovery: A suitable method for waste that cannot be recycled in any other way, energy recovery generates both district heating and electricity.

4. Landfill: Reserved for waste that cannot or should not be recycled; landfill involves storing waste in a safe manner, adhering to long-term safety protocols. The disposal of organic or combustible waste in landfills is strictly prohibited.

By engaging in material recycling, we not only reduce environmental impact but also conserve energy and natural resources. Additionally, preparing waste for reuse through inspection, cleaning, or repair eliminates the need for further treatment.

It is worth mentioning that hazardous waste can undergo one or more of these treatment methods based on its specific properties.

How is construction waste sorted in Sweden?

New Requirements for Construction and Demolition Waste

To comply with the requirements set in the Planning and Building Act and the Environmental Code it is necessary for all builders and demolishers to sort the waste generated. By implementing waste sorting, the following benefits can be achieved:

• Increase in reuse
• Increase in material recycling
• Controlled collection of hazardous waste
• Reduction in the amount of waste being deposited

The sorting of construction and demolition waste should be carried out on-site (unless exemptions are given). Sorting at the source minimizes pollution and contamination of reusable products while facilitating reuse and recycling.

Source sorting should be implemented at all stages of construction: new production, maintenance, alteration, and demolition work. Producers of construction and demolition waste bear a responsibility to classify their waste materials into six distinct types:

• Wood
• Gypsum
• Glass
• Mineral materials (such as concrete, tiles, ceramics, and stone)
• Metal
• Plastics

It is crucial to segregate and transport these categories separately from other waste streams.

Waste Ordinance (2020:614)

It is also critical to ensure appropriate handling of hazardous waste, waste falling under producer responsibility, and combustible waste (referring to the combustible waste remaining after sorting out the aforementioned waste types).

Different types of hazardous waste should be kept separated from each other, often requiring sorting into several fractions. Likewise, additional fractions may be needed among other waste types to optimize recycling possibilities.

Compliance with the sorting requirements for construction and demolition waste can be ensured by referring to the regulations issued by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, particularly NFS 2020:7, which outlines exceptions to these requirements.

Moreover, the Waste Ordinance specifies not only the sorting requirements for construction and demolition waste but also mandates waste management practices that foster resource efficiency, minimize environmental and health impacts, and encourage preparation for reuse and recycling. The new requirements provide further clarification, emphasizing the requirement for waste sorting at the source.

Facilitate future separation, reuse, and recycling at construction sites

To facilitate future separation, reusability, and recycling, it is crucial to consider the choice of materials and constructions during the early stages of designing a new building. Ideally, these materials and constructions should be capable of reuse, recycling, or, at the very least, not impede waste management. To simplify selective demolition and dismantling, it is important to ensure that the materials are joined in a way that allows for easy separation in the future.

During renovation and demolition, bricks and older structural timber, such as beams and rafters, can be saved and reused. Old doors, window frames, fittings, sanitary ware, and roof tiles can also be reused.

For these purposes, building certifications play a critical role, e.g., DGNB, BREEAM, LEED, and Miljöbyggnad.

For more information about building certifications, read our article What is a sustainable building certification?

How to prevent the generation of construction waste

During the design phase, proactive measures can be implemented to mitigate future waste generation. By opting for sustainable and flexible building practices, the frequency of renovations can be significantly reduced, thereby minimizing waste production. Selecting materials that promote maintainability and durability plays a pivotal role in waste prevention.

Repairability emerges as a key factor as well, as the possibility of repairing building components eliminates the need for disposal.

When it comes to construction, it is estimated that approximately 5-15 percent of building materials are wasted. This waste can be attributed to factors such as pre-installation damages, unused materials, and the creation of surplus pieces. However, by adhering to effective planning methodologies, ensuring proper handling and storage, and adopting responsible construction practices, it is possible to curtail the volume of generated waste to greater extents.

What is a construction-waste inventory?

Conducting an inventory before construction or demolition is crucial for waste prevention and safe management of materials. During this process, identify reusable construction products and potential waste, including hazardous substances. The inventory results are vital for developing a control plan in compliance with the Planning and Building Act (2010:900).

To meet these requirements, consider the following steps:

1. Identify reusable construction products and determine appropriate handling methods.
2. Establish waste management strategies for potential waste, ensuring high-quality material recycling and proper handling of hazardous substances.

What happens to construction waste post-sorting?

When it comes to construction and demolition waste, the generator is responsible for ensuring proper waste treatment in accordance with the waste hierarchy.

To comply with the waste hierarchy, additional post-sorting may be necessary if the waste has not been initially sorted according to the requirements specified in the Waste Ordinance. For instance, the generator of construction and demolition waste should arrange for the waste to be delivered to a designated waste treatment facility. Alternatively, if the municipality is responsible for treatment, the waste should be directed to a location specified by the municipality, ensuring proper treatment.

Space and other limitations in the workplace

To ensure proper sorting of waste at the point of generation, it is recommended to engage in discussions with your waste contractor regarding potential designs and logistics planning for collection.

Explore various options, such as the use of large sacks, dual-compartment containers, scheduled pick-ups for specific types of waste, and other effective strategies to address space constraints. Furthermore, designate a waste coordinator and provide comprehensive training to staff on the importance and methods of waste sorting. Implementing these measures will not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also enhance the overall efficiency of waste management in your facility.

How to sort plastic waste from construction and demolition

Plastic is a broad term encompassing a wide range of materials consisting of various polymers and additives. By sorting plastic into different fractions, you can actively contribute to promoting increased material recycling, ensuring high-quality and safe recycling practices, and ultimately reducing the overall climate impact.

The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency strongly recommends the separate sorting of plastic fractions, prioritizing the feasible options based on the given project requirements. The selection of these fractions should facilitate the smooth flow of materials for the production of recycled raw materials, adhering to the necessary quality standards.

When considering the sorting process, it is important to take into account the diverse plastic waste generated from various product groups. Notably, plastic pipes, insulation, floor and wall mats, moisture and weather protection materials, as well as electrical installations, are significant components in the construction sector. While the exact proportion of these flows has not yet been determined, it is worth noting that PVC is the most prevalent plastic-type across multiple product groups, followed by PP, PE, and EPS.

Emphasizing effective recycling practices and the importance of proper plastic sorting can make a notable contribution to minimizing the environmental impact associated with plastic waste.

Mapping plastic flows in the construction sector. ISBN 978-91-620-6973. (naturvardsverket.se)

Packaging plays a significant role in the construction sector, as it is the largest consumer of plastic in society. Studies have revealed that approximately 50% of plastic found in mixed waste from the construction sector is comprised of packaging materials. This highlights the importance of addressing the packaging waste issue in this industry.

Reduction of combustible construction and demolition waste (sbuf.se)

How to handle plastic waste in construction projects Waste management companies and product manufacturers provide collection and recycling options for new construction projects. It is a legal requirement to sort packaging separately, as previously mentioned. Additionally, there is extensive knowledge about potentially hazardous substances in installation waste, which facilitates the sorting and recycling of materials.

Plastic fractions can be sorted accordingly based on specific requirements:

• Transparent shrink and stretch films.
• Colored shrink and stretch films.
• Plastic packaging. Remove caps and lids and place them separately. Strings, tape, plastic bands, and similar items do not belong to the packaging fraction and should be sorted separately.
• Plastic flooring/wallpapers for wet rooms.
• Plastic pipes.
• Plastic roofing and membrane sheets.
• Another plastic fraction that may be present in significant quantities for the project, such as plastic profiles, EPS/cellulose plastic, and single-fraction hard plastic.

Check with your waste management company to find out the sorting possibilities for the listed fractions and the requirements for the sorted fraction to be considered recyclable material.

Recycling industries have compiled a list of sorting and material recycling options for plastic waste from construction and demolition. Sort and recycle plastic fractions within the construction sector - Recycling Industries.

To enhance plastic recycling efforts, consider collecting and working with specific fractions within your business to improve the sorting rate. Internal education programs can help achieve this goal. Additionally, reaching out to your waste management company for information regarding the recycling process and which plastic products are recycled can be beneficial.

By understanding which products and plastics are being recycled, you can explore opportunities for collaboration with the waste management company to increase the portion of plastic that can be recycled. Implementing requirements that promote material recycling when purchasing construction materials, implementing efficient plastic waste sorting on construction sites, and introducing advanced sorting processes at the waste management company are potential actions that construction contractors and waste management companies can take. Collaboration with suppliers to facilitate the return of spills and packaging also deserves consideration.

How to handle plastic waste during demolition

When it comes to demolition, waste management and recycling options provided by waste contractors and product manufacturers play a crucial role. However, the composition of various plastic types in demolition waste is often less known compared to construction waste. This is due to the fact that materials in older buildings may contain prohibited substances. As a result, material recycling conditions for plastic waste from construction are generally better than those for plastic waste from demolition.

Nonetheless, there is still potential for material recycling of plastic waste from demolition. A study has indicated that around one-fourth of the plastic waste from a specific demolition can be recycled. This includes items such as plastic carpets, roof and wall sheets, electrical conduits, pipes and hoses, and moldings.

Reusing products should be prioritized whenever possible as it helps avoid waste management, transportation, and the manufacturing of new products. It is generally a more environmentally friendly alternative compared to material recycling. To fully harness the potential of material recycling and reuse in demolition, conducting an inventory and implementing selective demolition is crucial. Additionally, planning for fine demolition in advance and allocating sufficient time for dismantling and material collection is recommended.

The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency has developed guidance specifically for developers to assist with inventorying materials and sorting construction and demolition waste. This guidance can also be valuable for construction contractors. To obtain further support in selecting products that can be sorted together and designing effective collection methods, you can consult your waste contractor for additional information.

Potential for material recycling of plastic waste from demolition (ivl.se)

How can I assess the amount of plastic in a project?

To get an idea of the likely amounts of plastic waste from your specific project, you can make an assessment based on project documents, among other things. You can also consider the plastic waste quantities that have arisen from previous, similar projects. Also, consider tracking the plastic waste quantities that arise from different product groups in your operations and where they occur as a basis for further development work. To identify more product groups that can potentially be sorted into the same fraction and create more homogeneous flows that have better opportunities for material recycling, it may also be relevant in the next step to map the type of plastic different products are made of. Have a dialogue with your waste contractor about this.

What if I can't separate my construction waste?

Sometimes, waste separation is not technically feasible and will fall under a certain set of exceptions. For instance, this can include cases where waste types are physically joined or embedded in a way that cannot be separated on-site without posing risks to health and safety (hazardous materials).

In such instances, separation should be carried out at a waste facility equipped for the task. It is the responsibility of the waste producer to assess the applicability of these exceptions. If needed, the supervisory authority should be consulted during the assessment process. The supervisory authority, whether it is the municipality or the county administrative board, possesses the power to grant exemptions in exceptional circumstances. For individuals seeking an exemption, it is advisable to reach out to their respective supervisory authority for detailed guidance on the application procedure.

Exemptions are solely authorized by the supervisory authority when it is impractical to implement separate collections or when the disadvantages outweigh the benefits of doing so.

Remember to record the processes in detail, as this documentation should be readily available for inspection by the supervisory authority responsible for monitoring compliance with possible exemptions.

What are waste-sorting exemptions?

The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency has issued regulations, NFS 2020:7, which provide exemptions from sorting requirements. These regulations came into effect on August 1, 2020, aligning with the amendments to the new Waste Ordinance.

As per Section 4 of the regulations, the sorting requirement specified in Section 10 of the Waste Ordinance does not apply to waste streams that meet the following conditions:

• Structures where substances or objects are joined in a manner that makes separation technically infeasible based on good waste collection practices.
• Contaminated waste that would hinder or impede the most suitable treatment, as outlined in the waste hierarchy stated in Section 10 of the Environmental Code.

Furthermore, Section 5 of the regulations states that for the waste streams referred to in Section 4, the requirement stated in Section 12 of the Waste Ordinance (2020:614) for sorting and separate storage of combustible waste is not applicable. Swedish Environmental Protection Agency regulations (NFS 2020:7) on the sorting of construction and demolition waste.

Hazardous waste at a construction site

Hazardous waste poses significant threats to public health as well as the environment. It falls under the category of dangerous goods due to its hazardous traits, which may include ignitability, reactivity, corrosivity, and toxicity. Regulatory authorities have identified listed hazardous wastes that originate from non-specific or specific sources, as well as discarded chemical products. These wastes can exist in various physical states, such as gaseous, liquid, or solid forms. It's important to note that hazardous waste cannot be disposed of using conventional methods typically employed for other everyday byproducts. Depending on the waste's physical state, appropriate treatment and solidification processes may be necessary to ensure proper management.

What is the definition of hazardous waste in Sweden?

According to the Swedish Environmental Agency (Naturvårdsverket), there are 15 hazardous characteristics that require waste to be handled as hazardous waste. The presence of certain persistent organic pollutants (POPs) substances may also require the waste to be classified and managed as hazardous.

The following list is adapted from Naturvårdsverket: Klassificering och Kodning:

• Explosive: Waste that can generate gases with temperature, pressure, and velocity capable of causing harm to the surroundings. This includes pyrotechnic waste, explosive organic peroxide waste, and explosive self-reactive waste.

• Oxidizing: Waste that, typically by releasing oxygen, can cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials.

• Flammable: Flammable liquid waste: liquid waste with a flash point below 60 °C or waste in the form of gas oil, diesel, and light fuel oils with a flash point > 55 °C and ≤ 75 °C. Flammable waste in the form of pyrophoric liquids and solids: solid or liquid waste that ignites within five minutes upon contact with air. Flammable solid waste: solid waste that is easily combustible or can cause or contribute to fire through friction. Flammable gaseous waste: gaseous waste that is flammable in air at 20 °C and at a standard pressure of 101.3 kPa.

• Water-reactive waste: waste that, upon contact with water, releases flammable gases in dangerous quantities.

• Other flammable waste: flammable aerosols, self-heating flammable waste, flammable organic peroxides, and flammable self-reactive waste.

• Irritant - skin irritation and eye damage: Waste that, upon contact, can cause skin irritation or eye damage.

• Specific target organ toxicity (STOT)/Aspiration toxicity: Waste that can cause specific toxicity to target organs upon single or repeated exposure or that causes acute toxic effects upon inhalation.

• Acute toxicity: Waste that can cause acute toxic effects upon ingestion or skin contact or upon exposure through inhalation.

• Carcinogenic: Waste that causes cancer or increases its incidence.

• Corrosive: Waste that, upon contact, can cause corrosive damage to the skin.

• Infectious: Waste that contains living microorganisms or their toxins and, based on science or reasonable suspicion, causes disease in humans or other living organisms

• Reproductive toxic: Waste that causes negative effects on sexual function and fertility in adult men and women, as well as developmental toxicity in offspring.

• Mutagenic: Waste that may cause genetic mutations.

What are the most common types of hazardous construction waste?

The following materials/substances are commonly found at construction and demolition sites, and that should be inventoried before demolition and handled as hazardous waste:

• Electrical and electronic components and equipment ("e-waste")
• Asbestos
• Fluorescent tubes, sodium lamps, and thermometers containing mercury
• Oil-filled cables
• Sealants and insulating glass units with PCB sealing
• Capacitors with PCB
• Acryl flooring with PCB
• Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning units, firefighting equipment (considered e-waste, may also contain ozone-depleting substances such as CFC, HCFC, halon)
• Insulation with CFC
• Wood treated with preservatives, such as creosote-treated timber
• Radiation sources
• Leftover chemicals

It should be noted that there may be many other materials/products/substances that can be classified as hazardous waste. As a waste producer, it is your responsibility to classify your generated waste to determine the most appropriate waste management.

The sorting should be done directly on-site, and the hazardous waste should be stored in a weather-protected manner, inaccessible to unauthorized individuals. Pre-treatment of e-waste on the demolition site is not allowed. Inadequate storage of e-waste and other hazardous waste can lead to the release of harmful substances on-site, as well as theft and vandalism with negative environmental impact.

What happens with contaminated construction waste?

According to §4 2 NFS 2020:7, exceptions can exempt the producer of construction and demolition waste from the obligation to separate waste types. This is particularly relevant when the waste is heavily contaminated, as combining it with clean waste may render the entire sorted waste type contaminated.

Consequently, instead of recycling, incineration becomes necessary. These exceptions, in specific scenarios, improve the overall environmental outcome by considering the broader environmental impact of waste management.

How to use the Precautionary Principle regarding hazardous waste at construction sites

If there are concerns about potentially hazardous substances in the waste resulting from demolition, a comprehensive investigation should be conducted during the survey. This investigation may involve sampling and analysis. In cases of uncertainty regarding the hazardous nature of the waste, it is advisable to adhere to the precautionary principle. This principle suggests classifying the waste as hazardous until proven otherwise, for instance, through sampling.

What are CFCs, and how do you recognize these at a construction site?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) can be found in cellular plastics used in ground slabs, wall insulation, liquid flooring, and refrigeration rooms. Cellular plastic is also used for insulating district heating pipes.

CFC-containing materials in buildings are currently the primary contributor to ozone-depleting substance emissions in Sweden while also serving as potent greenhouse gases. By implementing proper management practices during demolition, there exists a significant potential for reducing these emissions.

Waste materials exceeding a CFC content of 0.1 weight percent, which is determined based on the proportion of insulation weight, must be classified as hazardous waste. To ensure safe handling and transportation, it is imperative that these materials are identified, sorted, and managed separately by authorized contractors with proper permission for transporting hazardous waste. Furthermore, disposal must be carried out at licensed facilities. Responsibility for overseeing demolition activities involving CFC-containing materials lies with the municipality.

Where can I find CFCs in construction materials?

Cellular plastic also referred to as foam plastic or expanded polystyrene (EPS), is a highly versatile material with various applications. It can be categorized into soft and hard cellular plastic. Soft cellular plastic is commonly used in mattress and furniture upholstery, while hard cellular plastic is primarily utilized as insulation material.

The different types of hard cellular plastic include EPS, XPS, and PUR. XPS and PUR may contain CFC and HCFC, which are forms of cellular plastic. XPS is available in vibrant sheets of varying colors, often in shades of purple or pink. Conversely, PUR comes in sheets or sealants that are foamed on-site and typically have a yellow hue.

Insulation materials that contain polyurethane (PUR) and extruded polystyrene (XPS) are often integrated into or enclosed within other materials, such as sandwich panels. These panels consist of insulation placed between two structural panels made of different materials, such as plaster or metal. PUR can also be injected into construction elements or used as foamed sealants.

EPS sheets, which are a type of expanded polystyrene, have visible small beads on the cut surface, distinguishing them from other materials with a denser cut surface. PUR insulation is often yellow and commonly found in sandwich elements used in ground slabs, refrigeration rooms, walls, roofs, external roofs, and around piping systems.

The insulation is usually clad with metal or bonded with bitumen adhesive, which was a prevalent practice in the 1970s. XPS sheets, on the other hand, come in various colors, often in vibrant shades like purple or pink. They are frequently used for ground or basement insulation, as well as attic insulation, among other applications.

However, accurate identification of CFC requires laboratory analysis. If not, waste can be treated as hazardous waste and managed accordingly.

Can I use sniffer equipment to identify CFC at a construction site?

Using a portable "sniffer" device for detection is a straightforward method to determine the need for further sampling. While primarily suitable for leak detection in refrigeration units containing CFCs, this method can also be utilized for indication purposes when the material is broken during measurement. However, to obtain specific information regarding the blowing agents present in a material and their concentrations, it is necessary to send a sample to a laboratory for chemical analysis.

How can I remove CFC-containing materials from a construction/demolition site?

CFC-containing insulation is often hidden within structures, making it challenging to identify during sampling. To overcome this, destructive testing can be employed, involving the creation of openings in walls, ceilings, or floors to more effectively assess concealed structures. However, it's important to note that conducting destructive testing during a demolition survey may not always be feasible, as it occurs long before demolition commences and the premises are still in use.

In some cases, the removal of concealed CFC-contaminated materials may need to be conducted gradually as the building components hiding the material are dismantled. This presents specific oversight demands on the client, as conducting inspections after each stage of remediation may not be practical.

Demolition, Transportation, and Destruction of CFC-containing materials

Handling CFC in insulation materials requires special care to prevent breakage. It is vital to not divide the panels and to keep the waste separate during transportation. Demolition, crushing, or compression of the material can directly release CFCs. When separating metal from CFC-containing insulation in sandwich panels, approximately five percent of the CFC content is released. Therefore, it is crucial for all parties involved to be knowledgeable about this to minimize damage.

In some cases, proper disposal of insulation can be complicated by other materials, such as concrete. To ensure effective handling, the insulation needs to be separated. For composite materials, it is recommended to remove as much insulation as possible, minimizing fracture surfaces (which may require manual work). If feasible, this should be done at the demolition site. Insulation in cold room walls is easier to manage. Upon arrival at the receiving facility, the material can be cut into appropriate sizes for processing.

Who is responsible for handling hazardous construction/demolition waste containing CFCs?

Demolition projects often involve multiple parties, and it is crucial to adhere to the regulations outlined in the Environmental Code and Waste Regulation for handling hazardous waste. To promote environmental sustainability and ensure compliance with legal requirements, individuals involved in recycling or disposing of hazardous waste in accordance with the Swedish Waste Regulation must document essential information, such as volume, treatment, and source of each waste type.

Proper management of hazardous waste containing CFCs requires its identification, separation, and careful handling. Contractors should meet quality requirements and comply with applicable regulations for the transportation, disposal, and handling of hazardous waste. During the demolition phase, it is important to handle CFC-containing insulation panels intact to prevent the release and emission of CFCs.

Documentation plays a key role in waste management practices. Contractors are responsible for carrying out self-inspections, which should be thoroughly documented, checked, and submitted to the client. Prior collaboration with the client to establish the self-inspection process is advantageous.

Furthermore, it is essential for contractors to verify that transporters and waste receivers hold the necessary permits and provide this information to the client.

Further requirements for the contractor's reporting are specified in the report "Resource and Waste Management in Construction and Demolition" (industry standard, Swedish Construction Federation).

What is the responsibility of the general contractor/property owner when it comes to CFC-containing materials?

It is the responsibility of the general contractor or property owner to determine whether hazardous waste will be generated during the demolition process. Furthermore, they must ensure the proper removal, transportation, and disposal of such waste. As part of this process, a material inventory of the building or component scheduled for demolition is conducted. It is crucial to establish appropriate procedures for handling chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The client should clearly communicate to the contractor that they will monitor receipt documentation. This is necessary to fulfill the client's obligation to record hazardous waste, as required by waste management regulations.

During the procurement phase, specific follow-up procedures can be specified. Importantly, please note that for minor actions, such as the demolition of a non-load-bearing refrigeration room, no formal requirements for a material inventory, demolition permit, or notification apply. However, the property owner and/or contractor are still responsible for ensuring that hazardous waste, including materials containing CFCs, are handled in compliance with applicable regulations.

To ensure compliance with the control plan and relevant legislation, the client must appoint a control supervisor. The control supervisor will oversee the demolition contractor's handling of hazardous waste during demolition and remediation. It is their responsibility to certify and verify compliance before the final consultation.

Information for owners and contractors can be found on boverket.se.

What is the role of the municipal environmental agency and the building committee in supervising CFC-containing construction materials?

Effective supervision of waste management in construction and demolition activities involves a joint responsibility shared by the municipal environmental agency and the building committee. While this collaboration adds complexity to inspection processes, it is crucial for ensuring purposeful and efficient supervision.

During the application review for demolition permits, the building inspector must verify an up-to-date and comprehensive material inventory. In case of any uncertainty, the inspector should reach out to their counterpart at the environmental office, an environmental inspector who can provide assistance. The technical consultation should cover the inventory process, with specific focus on insulation containing CFCs in the building.

In the final consultation, documentation needs to be presented to demonstrate compliance with the control plan. If there is a lack of proper hazardous waste management documentation, the building committee may refrain from issuing a final certificate.

As outlined in the Swedish Environmental Code, the municipal environmental inspector possesses the authority to supervise environmentally hazardous operations within the municipality, including demolition activities, waste transporters, and treatment facilities.

During supervisory activities, the inspector is entitled to request necessary documentation to ensure appropriate handling of hazardous waste. If demolition reveals CFC-containing insulation, classified as hazardous waste, the environmental inspector can demand documentation regarding its proper disposal. In case of suspicion of an environmental violation, the inspector is obligated to report it to the prosecutor's office.

Data: How can I track construction waste?

Efficient waste tracking is critical for projects of any size. It not only offers opportunities for time and cost savings but also supports environmental preservation and enhancement – a concern for all stakeholders involved.

Accurate and streamlined waste tracking is crucial in managing different types of waste in industrial projects. Whether it's general waste, hazardous waste, electronic waste, food waste, or medical waste, organized efforts and dedicated resources are required for effective waste management. Industrial projects, including bridge construction, house building, and pipeline management, often generate substantial amounts of waste. Throughout various production stages, such as demolition or construction, waste accumulates rapidly. Although waste tracking may be overshadowed by production priorities, it plays a crucial role in a company's success, as waste is an unavoidable byproduct of value creation.

How to set up efficient waste tracking - the basics

Effective project monitoring in construction and heavy industries requires comprehensive documentation. This includes maintaining site diaries and progress reports for project tracking in general construction. Quality management relies on punch lists and snag lists for the same purpose. Waste tracking involves using a mechanism, commonly known as a docket or form, to track the movement of waste from one location to another, such as from a construction site to a waste disposal area. All participants must sign and approve the document to ensure compliance. Implementing a standardized and reliable waste-tracking template is crucial to gather necessary information from all parties involved. This step simplifies and streamlines the entire process, ensuring efficient management. It is important not to skip this initial step as it serves as the foundation of the waste-tracking process.

By using a comprehensive digital waste-tracking tool, like an app or software, waste tracking can be streamlined from the point of origin to the information management system, allowing for easy storage, analysis, auditing, and more. This eliminates challenges faced due to outdated methods like paper forms, spreadsheets, and sporadic emails that have caused difficulties for all parties involved.

When it comes to construction projects, there's often a need for numerous delivery and waste tracking dockets. Traditionally, this process involved completing each docket manually, signing them off, physically transporting them, scanning them into a computer, emailing them, and reconciling them with a database. However, with a smarter system in place, things can be much more streamlined.

With the implementation of a modern waste-tracking system, field workers and on-site personnel can easily access and fill out digital dockets on their mobile devices and digitally sign them off. These records are then synchronized online, making them instantly accessible to administrators, who can effortlessly convert them into their preferred format.

By adopting this modern approach, organizations can eliminate the risk of lost or delayed records, ensuring accurate and reliable tracking data. Notifications can also be set up to alert administrators or project managers when waste loads are received or delivered, facilitating seamless communication with clients and reducing disputes.

Overall, by embracing a modern waste-tracking system, organizations can overcome the limitations of outdated practices and experience improved efficiency and accuracy in waste management processes.

What is the future of waste management monitoring?

Digitalization is revolutionizing waste tracking, similar to other workflows. As time goes on, managing waste through traditional methods like paper, phone calls, and emails will become too costly and risky. Regulations and performance requirements will make this approach impractical. Advancements in waste tracking will leverage existing tools and technologies, with a focus on data capture and system learning capabilities. Smart hardware will integrate data into the mentioned systems, enabling automatic communication between weighbridges, scales, and digital platforms. This will reduce administrative burdens and eliminate manual input errors.

Once data is assimilated, systems will become more intelligent, leveraging machine learning algorithms to manage and learn from vast amounts of information. This valuable insight empowers environmental managers and stakeholders to enhance waste management practices and streamline operations.

Transportation of waste: what are your obligations?

Transporting waste may necessitate prior notification or obtaining a permit. Additionally, when dealing with hazardous waste, it is crucial to prepare a transportation document while ensuring that the transportation is duly recorded and reported to the waste register.

These obligations regarding waste transportation are applicable to all professional activities, regardless of the chosen mode of transport. However, it is worth noting that the obligations may vary depending on whether they relate to professional transport operations or activities involved in transporting waste generated in connection with their own professional undertakings. Individuals who transport their own waste are exempt from the aforementioned regulations.

What are the new Swedish regulations on waste transport?

The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency enacted new waste transport regulations, NFS 2022:2, on May 1, 2022, replacing the prior NFS 2005:3 regulations. While NFS 2005:3 became irrelevant on the same date, sections 3 and 4 of NFS 2022:2, which address exceptions for non-hazardous waste transport permit requirements, will not be enforceable until September 1, 2022.

According to the transitional provisions of NFS 2022:2, the existing transports exempted under NFS 2005:3, as per sections 5(1) and 7 of the Waste Ordinance (2020:614), may continue until August 31, 2022. Post that date, waste transport can only occur if the transporter has submitted the necessary notification or procured the requisite permit. You are required to submit the notification and permit application to the County Administrative Board.

Requirements for Notification or Permit for Professional Transportation of Other People's Waste

Individuals involved in the transportation of waste on behalf of others should be acknowledged as professional transporters and abide by the regulations governing such activities. If the business in question transports over 10 tons or 50 m3 of non-hazardous waste within a calendar year, or if a single transport exceeds 1 ton or 5 m3 of waste, it is paramount to secure a permit from the county administrative board.

Typically, permits are mandatory for the transportation of hazardous waste. However, professional transporters are exempt from both permit and notification requirements when handling specific types of hazardous waste that are outlined in Chapter 5, Section 2 of the Waste Ordinance. These waste types include hazardous agricultural chemicals, fly ash and oil combustion residue, infectious waste, asbestos-containing waste, waste resulting from the incineration or pyrolysis of household waste, as well as similar commercial, industrial, and institutional waste.

Moreover, when the business transports up to 10 tons or 50 m3 of non-hazardous waste within a calendar year and up to 1 ton or 5 m3 of non-hazardous waste in a single transport, only notification requirements need to be fulfilled in lieu of permit requirements.

Requirements for notification or permits for transports where the waste has been generated in or in connection with own operations.

Registration or permits are necessary for the transportation of waste generated in or in connection with one's own business operations. The regulations differ depending on whether the waste is transported solely from one's own professional activities or from others. For instance, this may involve the transport of waste generated within one's own operations to a collection point or treatment facility.

Transporting waste from one's own operations due to service or maintenance activities performed at another facility also falls under the category of waste transport generated in or in connection with one's own operations. Further details on waste resulting from service activities can be found in the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency's guide on waste definitions.

In the case of non-hazardous waste resulting from or in connection with professional activities, individuals transporting such waste must report to the County Administrative Board if the amount of non-hazardous waste exceeds 10 tonnes or 50 m3 per calendar year. No registration or permits are required for waste transports where the amount of non-hazardous waste falls below these thresholds.

For hazardous waste resulting from or in connection with professional activities, permits from the County Administrative Board are necessary if the total amount exceeds 100 kg or 100 liters of hazardous waste per calendar year. However, transports up to 100 kg or 100 liters per calendar year do not require permits if waste transport is considered normal and regular in business operations. Furthermore, transportation of self-generated waste containing mercury (excluding whole fluorescent tubes or other light sources), cyanide, cadmium, or a PCB product always necessitates permits.

Under the provisions of the Waste Ordinance, registration is mandatory for the transport of waste listed in Chapter 5, Section 2 of the Waste Ordinance if it involves the transport of waste resulting from or in connection with one's own professional activities. Registration requirements encompass the transport of hazardous agricultural chemicals, fly ash and bottom ash from oil combustion, infectious waste, asbestos-containing waste, waste from incineration or pyrolysis of household waste, and similar commercial, industrial, and institutional waste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, efficient waste management in the construction industry is not just a mandate but a responsibility that is heavily intertwined with sustainability. The Swedish government and the broader EU continue to make strides toward better handling and recycling of construction waste, setting clear targets and expectations.

However, success in this area hinges on the commitment and compliance of construction companies. By leveraging digital tools for waste tracking and adhering to regulations, these entities can significantly contribute to a sustainable future. Always ensure you are abreast with the latest regulations and seek professional guidance when in doubt.

Together, we can make a difference in promoting environmental sustainability.

Please note that all the information provided in this article is based on public knowledge and general guidelines. It is recommended to consult the official regulations and seek professional advice for specific situations. It does not claim completeness but is intended as an introductory step to construction waste for entertainment purposes.

Sources

• EU Construction and Demolition Waste Protocol and Guidelines
• Collection and recycling of construction and demolition waste: Key learnings
• Bygg- och fastighetssektorns uppkomna mängder av avfall
• VÄGLEDNING Bygg- och rivningsavfall
• The Swedish Environmental Code
• Waste Ordinance (2020:614)
• Waste Ordinance (2020:614)
• Naturvårdsverket: Klassificering och Kodning
• Reduction of combustible construction and demolition waste (sbuf.se)
• Mapping plastic flows in the construction sector. ISBN 978-91-620-6973. (naturvardsverket.se)
• Potential for material recycling of plastic waste from demolition (ivl.se)
• Vägledning om CFC-haltigt byggisolermaterial
• TILLSYNSVÄGLEDNING Avfallstransporter inom Sverige
• Definition of Waste (naturvardsverket.se)