Environmental Guidance - Site Waste Management Plans (Construction)
Site Waste Management Plans (SWMPs) have now been introduced in England for constructionprojects over £300,000 in value.
SWMP seek to ensure that waste produced on construction sites is subject to tighter controls which result in improved management of the waste produced and a reduction in the volume of waste sent to landfill. SWMPs are now required for all construction works including civil engineering, infrastructure, demolition, excavation, refurbishment and commercial and residential construction projects.
It is the responsibility of the client and the principle contractor (as defined under the CDM Regulations) to ensure that a SWMP is devised before any construction work begins. The principle contractor must to ensure that the plan is implemented, including ensuring that contractors are aware of the plan and are working towards meeting its aims. The level of detail contained within the plan must reflect the size of the development, there are different requirements for developments above and below £500,000.
The key elements of a SWMP include:
• Forecast of amount & type waste that will be produced on site
• Identification of how it will be reduced, reused, recycled & disposed of
• Record actual waste management routes for wastes & duty of care
• Review of plan
SWMPs provide a good opportunity to streamline site activities and realise a number of business benefits including:
• Cost savings and income realisation through reduced requirements for Materials, storage & handling and better management for recovery or disposal
• Demonstration of good environmental performance, supporting the Requirements of environmental management systems
• Risk management – ensuring compliance with regulation and contractual requirements of public and private sector clients
• Improved company performance allowing differentiation from competition
For more information concerning the implementation of a SWMP, the following may be of use:
Click here for SWMP training information
Click here for SWMP Regulations
Download BERR SWMP DRAFT Guidance: