Site Waste Management Plans
Effective from 6 April 2008, Site Waste Management Plans (SWMPs) became mandatory for all construction projects in England with a project cost greater than £300,000 (excl. VAT). It is hoped that SWMPs will help industry to maximise waste efficiency, while simultaneously bolstering existing regulations to combat waste crime.
SECBE recently surveyed a diverse range of businesses and organisations affected by the new regulations. We wanted to ascertain a true picture of understanding and implementation. The results revealed a significant lack of understanding, confusion over responsibilitites and absence of imperative given poor communication over enforcement.
For full survey report click here
What is a Site Waste Management Plan
A Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) is simply a plan that details the amounts and types of wastes that will be produced on site and how they will be reused, recycled or disposed of. 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 competitors
There are nine key steps to successful implementation of SWMPs
1. Make someone responsible for the SWMP
2. Identify waste streams
3. Review waste management options
4. Decide how to dispose of your waste - best options and liabilities
5. Plan for on-site material efficiency and waste handling
6. Develop communication, training and ‘buy-in'
7. Measure types and volumes of waste
8. Monitor the effectiveness of the SWMP
9. Review and act
Resources
Site Waste Management Plan Guide
Envirowise has produced an A5 pocket booklet for the construction industry that provides a succinct and practical guide to the requirements of Site Waste Management Plan legislation, regulation and implementation.
This Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) Regulations Guide provides a summary of SWMPs for the construction industry and its supply chain to help prepare and implement effective and efficient SWMPs that are inclusive, practicable and deliverable. This Guide includes quick tips, guidance, information and initial ideas for delivering SWMPs.
Click to download free SWMP Guide.
On-line Broadcast
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has produced an online broadcast discussing the business case and benefits that lie behind the implementation of SWMPs - Are you ready for Site Waste Management Plans?
SECBE SWMP Training
SECBE has developed a suite of training programmes to assist you to quickly and easily implement effective and efficient SWMPs. If you need a helping hand with your first Site Waste Management Plans we can offer advice and support. For more information click here
