The Recycling Plus Program Manual and accompanying materials were first distributed in January 1996.  They  are public documents and are intended to be photocopied.  They cannot be copyrighted by any public or private organization.

Recycling Plus Program materials are distributed by the Clean Washington Center (CWC), a division of the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER).  Contact the CWC, at 2200 Alaskan Way, Suite 460 Seattle, WA 98121; (206) 443-7746;
fax: (206) 443-7703.

Management Guide
Developed for the
Construction Industry

Section 1:     Introduction

                        The Recycling Plus Program: What is it and Why Use it for your Company?...... 1-1

                        Tools of the Program......................................................................... 1-2

                        Keys to Success.............................................................................. 1-3

                        A Note About Hazardous Waste........................................................ 1-5

Section 2:     Management’s Role in the Recycling Plus Program

                        Working with Clients......................................................................... 2-1

                        Table 1: Recycling Plus Design and Specification Action Items............. 2-2

                        Choosing Recycling Services............................................................. 2-2

                        Table 2: Sample Provisions for a Full-Service Recycling Agreement...... 2-3

                        Setting Up Subcontractor Agreements................................................ 2-5

                        Table 3: Sample Language for Subcontractor Agreement...................... 2-6

                        Working with Suppliers..................................................................... 2-6

                        Table 4: Recycling Plus Action Recommendations for Suppliers........... 2-7

                        Supporting Field Personnel................................................................ 2-7

Section 3:     Appendices

                        Fletcher Wright Case Study.................................................. Appendix A

                        Case Study Form................................................................. Appendix B

                        Auditing and Other Program Assistance Services.................... Appendix C

                        Directories and Guides List................................................... Appendix D

                        List of CDL Recycling Coordinators........................................ Appendix E

                        Washington State Department of Ecology Contact Information.. Appendix F

                        Tips for Specifying Recycled-Content Building Materials ......... Appendix G

                        Construction Materials with Recycled Content........................ Appendix H

                        Clip Art................................................................................. Appendix I

The Recycling Plus Program:

What is it and Why Use it for Your Company?

The Recycling Plus Program was developed to provide construction companies with a model program for reducing construction waste on your job sites through using the “three R’s” – Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.  The intent was to create a user-friendly program emphasizing cost-effective methods to minimize waste on the job site and to make sure most of the “waste” that does occur gets recycled.  Modeled after successful job-site safety programs, the program includes a manual and visual aids for training field personnel.  Program materials can be customized by incorporating your company name with the Recycling Plus Program logo.

The program was developed by Fletcher Wright with environmental construction consultants O’Brien & Company and Sound Resource Management Group, and field-tested by Fletcher Wright site personnel and subcontractors.  Fletcher Wright found that by applying the principles of the Recycling Plus Program, they were able to significantly increase the company’s level of job-site recycling while reducing the amount of money they paid out in waste disposal fees.  In a large commercial project on a corporate campus, for example, they were able to reduce waste management costs through recycling and waste reduction efforts by 30%.  Smaller commercial and residential projects have also benefited from similar reductions in disposal costs.  In addition, with more and more clients showing interest in environmentally-friendly construction practices, these efforts have the added benefit of providing a positive marketing edge in very competitive markets.

Incorporating the principles of the Recycling Plus Program in your company’s job-site protocol can improve your bottom line and marketing potential while benefiting the environment.  It’s a win-win situation.

Tools of the Program

Several Recycling Plus Program tools have been developed, including those intended for use by company management, others for field personnel, and some designed for subcontractors.  Some of the tools developed for the program may suit your company, some may not.  Take what works for you, and leave the rest.  You needn’t use every method provided in the manual to get good results.

n          The Recycling Plus Program title and logo can be customized with your company name.  Camera-ready art is provided for this purpose in Appendix I of the Management Guide.

n          Recycling Plus Management Guide: This manual is written for management personnel to provide assistance in setting the program up in your company.

n          Recycling Plus Field Guide:  This is a straight-forward flexible guide for field personnel providing tips on how to customize, set up, maintain, and evaluate results of a Job-Site Action Plan incorporating Recycling Plus Program principles.  A copy of the Field Guide should be provided to project managers or field personnel responsible for implementing the Recycling Plus Program on the
job site.

The Field Guide includes field-tested forms and information sheets your field personnel can use when implementing the Recycling Plus Program on the job site.  Step-by-step instructions accompany original forms that can be photocopied for each job.

n          Recycling Plus Program Subcontractor Kit:  The Subcontractor Kit is made up of several elements, some provided by corporate management level, and some by field personnel.  A sample Subcontractor Kit is outlined in the final section of the Manual.  The Subcontractor Kit outline and tip sheets should be provided along with the Field Guide  to Project Managers or other field personnel responsible for implementing and coordinating the Recycling Plus Program on the job site.

n          Recycling Plus Program Visual Aids:  Several visual aids that can be used by field personnel to communicate the program and motivate personnel have been developed as part of the program.  They appear in relevant sections of the
Field Guide (corresponding logos are available as EPS files on disk).

n          Recycling Plus Program Forms Package:  A separate package of forms found in the Program Manual including original hard copies and a disk copy of a cost/materials tracking form is also provided.

You may elect to build your company’s program over time, limiting your efforts by perhaps targeting only one or two materials for recycling at first -- and adding materials as you gain experience with the program.  The Recycling Plus Program is designed so you can incorporate its tools incrementally.  In addition, although the Program Manual is organized with separate guides for management and field personnel, the program is easily adapted to smaller companies, where management and field personnel often overlap.  The principles of the program can work for any construction company -- no matter what the size.

Keys to Success

There are several keys to making the Recycling Plus Program work for you on your company's job sites, including:

n          A clear starting point.  Evaluating the wastes your company generally creates as you construct or renovate a building provides you with a starting point to help you set up a program that works for you.  Two methods field personnel can use to conduct job-site audits are provided in the Evaluation Tools Section of the Field Guide.  Information on hiring consultants who provide audit services is provided in Section 3 of the Management Guide in Appendix C.

n          Job-specific planning.  Each construction project and job site presents a different set of circumstances.  A Job-Site Action Plan including proposed actions to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle on the job site should be formulated at the startup of each project.  Details for setting up a plan are included in the Planning Tools Section of the Field Guide.

n          Good understanding of available options and limiting factors.  Research is a first step in setting up an effective Job-Site Action Plan.  It will help identify available collection, sorting, and recycling services, and variables about a specific project that could limit or constrain job-site recovery efforts.  Research tips are provided in the Planning Tools Section of the Field Guide.

n          Focus on high potential materials and practices.  Apply the 80-20 rule. Don’t try to recycle everything.  Identify materials that are collected in your project area and then choose to recycle those materials that you generate the most volume of, that have the most market value, and that can be separated most easily.

n          Committed key field personnel.  If the program is to be effective, key field personnel (including major subcontractors and suppliers) should know and be committed to the project’s goals. This requires the involvement of both management and field personnel and should be done at the  startup of a project, or when new subcontractors, suppliers, or other field personnel become introduced to the project.  In addition, field personnel should be made aware of how their efforts are paying off, both during the project and at project completion.  Details for accomplishing this can be found in the Communication Tools Section of the Field Guide.

n          Convenience.  Make sure using the three R’s -- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle -- is as convenient and efficient as traditional methods of waste management.  Simple measures, such as correct placement and clear labeling of recycling bins, can make or break a waste reduction program.  The Recycling Plus Program provides tips and visual aids to make recycling and waste reduction convenient in the Communication Tools Section of the Field Guide.

n          Make it worth it.  Award programs and other incentives, both the “carrot” and “stick” variety, motivate field personnel.  Whether you devise company-wide incentives or allow your Project Manager or field personnel to do so, the Field Guide provides ideas in the Motivation Tools Section.

n          Apply lessons learned. As part of the Recycling Plus Program, field personnel are encouraged to complete a Final Job-Site Evaluation Form after each project.  The form is found in the Evaluation Tools Section of the Field Guide.  This will help your company identify opportunities to improve the program by customizing it to your needs.

A Note About Hazardous Waste

Because the handling, storing and disposal of hazardous waste is governed by specific regulations, The Recycling Plus Program materials do not address best management practices relating to hazardous waste.  Efforts to reduce hazardous waste, however, should be coordinated with overall efforts to reduce waste on the job site.  For information on methods to reduce hazardous substance use and hazardous waste generation, contact the Washington State Department of Ecology office in your region.  Regional contact information can be found in Appendix F of the Management Guide.  Regulatory guidance is provided in a new publication (available Spring, 1996) entitled: “Environmental Handbook for Washington Construction Contractors -- Regulatory Guidance.”  Call Ecology’s Permit Assistance Center at 360-407-7037 to get your copy.

Your Role in the Recycling Plus Program

There are several areas where management plays a significant role in the Recycling Plus Program, including:

n          Working with Existing (and Future) Clients

n          Choosing Recycling Services

n          Setting up Subcontractor Agreements

n          Working with Suppliers

n          Supporting Field Personnel

Working with Clients

1.   Market the Concept.  As part of your project procurement efforts you can inform potential clients of the Recycling Plus Program with a commitment to use it as part of your job.  For marketing to future clients, publicity, such as site signage, advertising, and press releases can include information about the company’s commitment to recycling and waste reduction.

2.   Identify Waste Reduction Opportunities in Design and Specifications.  If you are in a partnering relationship with the client and/or design team, you can have a significant role in reducing waste before it even happens.  See Table 1 for some ideas about how waste can be reduced by actions taken in the design or specification phase.  (Note that field personnel have the same opportunities when purchases or substitutions are made from the field.  You should encourage field personnel to take advantage of these.)

Choosing Recycling Services

Choosing recycling services for a project is sometimes the responsibility of management, sometimes the responsibility of field personnel. There are four options: hiring a full-service recycling contractor; using a garbage hauler who provides recycling services; operating an in-house recycling program; or making your subcontractors responsible for recycling their own materials.

1.  Hire a Full-Service Recycling Contractor.  Many or all source-separation and collection tasks are subcontracted to a recycling contractor.  Full-service recycling contractors are beginning to enter the construction industry.  These contractors can provide training and on-site sorting services.  As you would any supplier, solicit the best service and best fees (or prices) for materials you are targeting for recycling.  Sample provisions for a full-service agreement are provided in Table 2.

2.   Use a Garbage Hauler’s Recycling Services.  You use the recycling services offered by your garbage hauler.  These services may be limited.  For example, if materials are mis-sorted, the garbage hauler will generally not provide re-sorting services or training to avoid future mis-sorting.  This may result in higher costs if the mis-sorted materials are treated as garbage.  You’ll want to make sure you have a good in-house training program in place.   (Or negotiate more complete services with your garbage hauler.)  Make sure your Recycling Plus goals are reflected in any agreement you make with the garbage hauler.

      Please note that although you may be restricted as to the hauler you use for garbage, current Washington State regulations allow you to use any service vendor you wish to handle your recycled materials.  Thus, if your garbage hauler does not provide recycling services, you are free to hire other haulers or businesses who will provide these services.

3.   Operate an In-House Recycling Program.  Your Project Managers or field personnel would be responsible for monitoring source-separation, collection, and ordering drop-off or pick-up.   In this scenario, you would be working with individual recyclers to recycle one or more materials.  You may also negotiate some recycling services with your garbage hauler.  (See item 2, above.)

4.   Make Subs Responsible.  You can hold your subcontractors completely responsible for setting up their own recycling and waste reduction programs (including source separating materials, maintaining bins, arranging drop off or pickup).  Although general contractors have often used this method,
demonstration projects reveal the results from using this method can be mixed.  Success of job-site recovery and waste reduction will depend on the individual subcontractor’s commitment to the program and familiarity with recycling and waste reduction practices. This method also makes little use of the benefits of a company- or project-wide program, such as efficient leveraging of time, labor, and equipment resources.

Setting Up Subcontractor Agreements

As stated earlier, subcontractor commitment to the Recycling Plus Program is absolutely key to achieving good results.  Agreements that simply ask subcontractors to be responsible for their own waste tend not to be uniformly successful, and merely pass on the responsibility.  In such cases, it is often difficult to document what subcontractors are actually doing with the materials.  When setting up subcontractor agreements:

1.   Require a Commitment to the Overall Program.  Language in the subcontractor agreement should commit subcontractors to comply or cooperate with a company- or project-wide Job Site Action Plan.  The  Plan will be developed by the Project Manager or other field personnel.

2.   Require Full Participation in Training and Assessment.  Additional language could require the subcontractor to attend orientation and mid-course assessment meetings as part of fulfilling their waste reduction requirements.

3.   Require Recycling Plus Purchasing Practices.  The agreement can also include a requirement for purchasing recycled-content building products and packaging whenever feasible.  (In a partnering situation, your company can work with the owner to include such provisions in the original specifications.)  See tips for specifying recycled-content building products in Appendix E.

4.   Solicit Input from Subcontractors.  Ask what waste reduction ideas subcontractors have in place now or could implement on the project.  It is important to note that some subcontractors have very aggressive and effective recycling programs.  Encourage these efforts by coordinating your company’s Recycling Plus activities with the subs’ existing programs.

5.   Recognize Subcontractor Participation.  Whether it's required or not, subcontractor participation should be recognized through job-site signage, letters of commendation, or other means.

Working with Suppliers

Suppliers can play a significant role in waste reduction efforts.  You can let your suppliers know that you have a Recycling Plus Program, and ask them to participate themselves.  Table 4 provides a number of ways suppliers can participate.  Suppliers who do participate should be recognized for their efforts.  This can be done using the same methods used to provide recognition to participating subcontractors.

(Again: field personnel have the same opportunities when purchases or substitutions are made from the field.  You should encourage field personnel to take advantage of these.)

Supporting Field Personnel

It will be important for field personnel to know the company is committed to the Recycling Plus Program and that it has the full support of management personnel.  This may be easier to achieve in smaller companies where management and field personnel often overlap and you can take your enthusiasm for the program directly into the field.  Additional ways for management to communicate support can include:

1.       Commit Personnel.  Assign a point person at the corporate level to coordinate the Recycling Plus Program company-wide.  This individual can introduce the program to project managers, provide program materials, be available for questions, and pass information from project to project.

2.       Provide Technical Support.  It is not necessary to hire consultants to use the Recycling Plus Program.  The tools are designed so your field personnel can walk through it step by step.  However, you may choose to provide a baseline for your company's waste reduction and recycling efforts using professional expertise.  A list of construction waste auditors and others providing technical construction recycling assistance is included in Appendix C.  In addition, you may want to make references available on this subject to your field personnel.  A list of recycling and ‘Buy Recycled’ guides and directories is included in Appendix D.

3.       Enlist Field Support.  Provide copies of the Field Guide to all Project Managers and/or Project Superintendents.  Introduce the Field Guide at a meeting to kick off the Program, providing an opportunity for Project Managers/Superintendents to brainstorm ideas on how to incorporate the Program in your company (for example, whether it will be done one project at a time, and if so, which project to start with).  Make sure you provide the Subcontractor Kit  with the Field Guide.  Both the Field Guide and Subcontractor Kit are designed to be photocopied. 

4.       Customize the Recycling Plus Program.   Using the company logo, create company-specific visual aids.  Provide adequate supplies of visual aids such as job-site signs and posters to field personnel.

5.       Ensure subcontractor compliance.  Negotiate subcontractor agreements incorporating the Recycling Plus Program.           

6.       Empower Project Managers or other field personnel responsible for implementing and coordinating the Recycling Plus Program on the job-site to use approved incentives.

7.       Provide approval for end-of-project awards, including related expenses.  (Funds can easily be generated through the savings realized from reduced waste hauling costs.)

8.       Incorporate field personnel recommendations.  Work with Project Managers or field personnel responsible for implementing and coordinating the Recycling Plus Program on fine-tuning the Program for your company.

Case Study

Contractor:          Fletcher Wright Construction

Address:              Seattle, Washington

Contact:              Ken Goldblatt

Phone:                (206) 447-7654

Project Name:     Office Building, Corporate Campus

Project Length:   9 months

Project Size:       $30 million

Project Type:      Commercial

Special notes about project including site constraints that affected recovery efforts.

At times, there was no place to put the recycling container on site because the project schedule was so fast there were materials and workers in every available space.

Materials Recycled

Types                   Amounts

Wood                    295 tons

Drywall                  123 tons

Metal                     Not targeted-however some scrap was collected to fund job-site party.

Cardboard              7 tons    

Total Recycled       425 tons

Total Waste
Generated              938 tons

Indicate percent of the total  waste materials generated that were recycled. 45%

Total amount saved due to recycling  $44,000

Any waste reduction actions taken in addition to recycling.

Constructed 7 4x8 collection boxes.

Most suppliers used dramatically less packaging for deliveries to this building than on previous similar buildings.

Any ideas you came up with to support your Plan: (such as incentives)

Forklift operators were empowered to ‘reject’ loads contaminated by subs.

We posted a public sign indicating cubic yards recycled.

Any suggestions for improving the Program or Program tools:

Distribute Fletcher Wright Recycling Plus Program hard hat stickers.

Send letters thanking subcontractors for participating.

Use audit forms to help identify times to target specific materials.

Bolt reversible signs to dumpsters instead of Velcro-ing to keep them from falling off and getting lost.

‘Require’ instead of ‘suggest’ participation in the program in the Subcontract Agreement.

Clean Washington Center will be surveying successes and lessons learned from the Recycling Plus Program.  Please check below if you do not want to be included in these surveys by the CWC.  I do not want to be included. q

Case Study

Contractor:                                                                   ________________________________

Address:                                                                       ________________________________

Contact:                                                                       ________________________________

Phone:                                                                         ________________________________

Project Name:                                                              ________________________________

Project Length:                                                            ________________________________

Project Size:                                                                ________________________________

Project Type:                                                               ________________________________

Special notes about project including site constraints that may affect recovery efforts.

Materials Recycled

Types                   Amounts

Wood                    ________

Drywall                  ________

Metal                     ________

Cardboard              ________

Total Recycled       ________

Total Waste
Generated              ________

Indicate percent of the total  waste materials generated that were recycled. _______%

Total amount saved due to recycling  $___________

Any waste reduction actions taken in addition to recycling.

Any ideas you came up with to support your Plan: (such as incentives)

Any suggestions for improving the Program or Program tools:

Clean Washington Center will be surveying successes and lessons learned from the Recycling Plus Program.  Please check below if you do not want to be included in these surveys by the CWC.  I do not want to be included. q

Auditing and Other Program Assistance Services as of January 1996

Waste Auditors

Waste Auditors are consultants who perform in-depth sorts and waste audits.  Such detailed audits make sense when you are applying waste reduction techniques for the first time.

Technical and/or Program Assistance Consultants

Other consultants provide technical assistance in setting up or improving your recycling program, including in-depth waste audits, job-site training, and on-the-job monitoring.  Your local solid waste office and the Washington State Department of Ecology can provide information about CDL recycling and waste reduction opportunities in your area.

Directories and Guides List

Waste Reduction

* Includes Directory of Local Recyclers.

Builders Guide to Residential Construction Waste Management.  National Association of Home Builders Research Center, 400 Prince George’s Blvd., Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. (301) 249-4000.

*Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling Guide.  Prepared by the L.A. Network for the Integrated Solid Waste Office, 200 No. Main Street, Room 580 CHE, Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 237-1444.

*Construction Materials Recycling Guidebook.  Innovative Waste Management for the Metropolitan Council of the Twin Cities Area.  (612) 432-7038.  

*Construction Site Recycling.  A guide for architects, builders and developers.
(206) 234-3000. METRO Solid Waste Department, 600 NE Grand Ave, Portland, OR 07232-2736.  (503) 797-1650. 

*Contractor’s Guide to Handling Waste.  Cutting costs by recycling, reusing and reducing waste at the construction site.  King County Solid Waste Division, 400 Yesler Way, Suite 600, Seattle, WA 98104 (206) 296-8480 or Seattle Solid Waste Utility, c/o Business and Industry Recycling Venture (BIRV), 1301 5th Avenue, Suite 2400, Seattle, WA  98101 (206) 389-7304.

Environmental Handbook for Oregon Construction Contractors: Best Pollution Prevention Practices.  Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.  Contact
Jo Brooks, Public Affairs.  (503) 229-6044.

"Reducing On-Site Waste."   Building With Value Fact Sheet #1.  BWV Project, PO Box 10705, Bainbridge Island, WA  98110.  (206) 842-8995.

Resource Efficient Building-Reducing Materials Use, Toxicity and Waste in Design and Construction. WRITAR, 1313 5th St. SE, Suite 327 Minneapolis, MN
55414-4502. (612) 379-5995.

WasteSpec: Model Specifications for Construction Waste Reduction, Reuse, and Recycling. Triangle J Council of Governments,  P.O. Box 12276, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. (919) 549-0551.

Buy Recycled

"Building With Recycled Content."  Building With Value Fact Sheet #2.  BWV Project, P.O. Box 10705, Bainbridge Island, WA  98110.  (206) 842-8995.

The Environmental Home Center.  A recycled-content building materials supply house. 1724 4th Ave. South, Seattle, WA 98134. (206) 682-7332, fax (206) 682-8275.

A Guide to Recycled Products.  A guide to recycled building and construction products prepared by the Solid Waste Department, Metro, 600 NE Grand Ave., Portland, OR  97232.  (503) 797-1650.

Guide to Resource-Efficient Building Elements (GREBE) .  Published by the Center for Resourceful Building Technology, P.O. Box 3866, Missoula, MT 59806.

The Harris Directory of Recycled-Content Building Materials.  Stafford-Harris Inc. 218 Poke Street #326, Pt. Townsend, WA 98165. (206) 682-4042.

McRecycle USA Database, Regional Listings. McDonald’s Environmental Affairs.
(708) 575-5779.

Recycled Product Procurement: A Guide to Recycled Content Building and Construction Products and Resources.  King County Commission for Marketing Recyclable Materials (206) 296-4439, and King County Purchasing Agency (206) 296-4210.

Recycled Products Listings: The Official Recycled Products Guide.  American Recycling Market Inc.  P.O. Box 577, Ogdensburg, NY 13669.  1-800-267-0707.

A Resource Guide to Recycled Construction and Building Products.  Marin County Office of Waste Management, 3501 Civic Center Dr., Suite 403, San Rafael, CA 94903-4177.  (415) 499-6647.

Resources for Environmental Design Index. (REDI Guide) Iris Communications,
P.O. Box 5920, Eugene, OR 97405-0911. (800) 346-0104 or (541) 484-9353.

The Sourcebook for Sustainable Design.  Published by the Boston Society of Architects, 52 Broad St., Boston, MA 02109-4301.  (617) 951-1433.

Sustainable Building Materials Products Directory for Manufactured Housing.  Pacific Northwest Laboratories.  (503) 230-4242.

List of CDL Recycling Coordinators

The Regional CDL Coordinators Planning Group is an informal coalition of representatives from local and state agencies with an interest in issues of recycling and resource efficiency.  Common initiatives include market development for construction, demolition and landclearing materials, outreach to the building community and recycled-content building materials, education about energy and resource efficient practices on the job site and developing public private partnerships to demonstrate the economics of such practices.

Tips for Specifying Recycled-Content Building Materials

It’s What’s Up Front That Counts! 

The most successful construction projects are those where requirements for all members of the building team are clear and known from the start.  Thus, if you want to maximize the use of recycled-content building products in your building projects, your building specifications should say so, and say so clearly.

General Requirements:  The following language was included in the General Conditions Section of the 1995 Central Market Project and was referred to at the start of each division:

How to Title the Requirement:   You will want to title the requirement: “Recycled Content Materials and Products.”  However, if you wish to include a requirement for job-site recycling in your specifications package, you could include the requirement for recycled-content materials under the general heading of “Waste Reduction” with your language on job-site recycling.

Specific Requirements:  The most effective product specification will make it clear the product being specified must have recycled content, whether it is a named product or “equivalent.”  This can be done with a recycled content icon or a parenthetical note, such as “includes” or “must include recycled content” (whatever is appropriate.)  Other information, derived through product research, should also be included to make it easy

to understand and follow through on the specification.  Include whether the recycled content is post-industrial or post-consumer if that information is readily available.  (See definition, below.)

Here’s a sample of language that could be used to specify drywall with recycled content:

Product Substitutions:  Specification packages usually include requirements for product substitutions.  Make sure this language includes a provision for verifying recycled content when substituting a product that is not named in the specifications package for a product with recycled content that is named.
Requirements vs. Goals:  You be the judge as to whether you want to make it a goal rather than a requirement.  Most people find that requirements up front work best.  If you do use the “goal” approach, then you might want to use additional incentives (such as publicity) to back it up.

A Note About Product Research:  Verifying recycled content can become part of screening a product for use on a job, along with cost, performance, and availability.    In the course of product research it is a good idea to acquire manufacturer data sheets or spec sheets.  These can come in handy if the building inspector on your job has a question regarding a particular recycled-content product’s code compliance.

It’s a Team Effort!  

This isn’t new -- a successful construction project takes a coordinated effort on the part of every member of the building project team.  When introducing the concept of using recycled content products, it’s important that everyone on the team is aware of the effort. That includes the owner or tenant, general contractor, subcontractor and anyone else making decisions affecting the purchase and use of materials on the job.  In addition to the written specifications package, this can be communicated at weekly project planning meetings and on drawings.

A Note About Changes On the Job:  Even in the ideal situation, there will be changes.  That’s the nature of construction.  And, even if these changes are minor, they can make a specified product no longer appropriate (perhaps because the product is not available in a non-standard size or in a particular color).  It’s best to make someone on the team responsible for reminding field or other personnel that the original intent was to use a recycled-content product and to seek alternatives with recycled content when changes necessitate looking for a different supplier or product.

Construction Materials with Recycled Content

Recycled content materials are available in the following divisions.  See “Buy Recycled Directories and Guides” as listed in Appendix D for specific product information.

Division 2:        Sitework

         Filter fabric, radon protection          materials

         Paving systems

         Site structures (drainage)

         Plants, compost, soil        amendments

Division 3:        Concrete

         Cement

         Aggregate

         Admixtures

         Reusable forms

         Precast concrete

Division 4:        Masonry

         CMUs

         Bricks

         Autoclaved Cellular Concrete

Division 5:        Metals

         Steel framing

         Rebar

Division 6:        Wood and Plastics

         Engineered Lumber

         Remanufactured Wood Products

         Wood preservatives and glues

         Plastic Lumber

         Paper-waste structural products

Division 7:        Thermal and                                        Moisture Protection

         Waterproofing and             Dampproofing products

         Insulation

         Siding, Sheathing

         Roofing and flashing

         Vapor barriers

         Sealants, Sealers

Division 8:        Doors and Windows

         Doors

         Windows

         Skylights and other daylighting       devices

Division 9:        Finishes

         Drywall

         Tiles (ceramic & stone)

         Acoustical ceilings

         Wood paneling and flooring

         Resilient flooring (sheet, tile)

         Carpet

         Paints and stains

         Wall coverings

         Adhesives and finishes

Division 10:      Specialties

         Toilet Partitions

         Toilet and Bath Accessories

         Wall and Corner Guards

Division 11:      Equipment

         Appliances

         Hot Water Heaters

Division 12:      Furnishings

Division 13:      Pre-Engineered                                   Structures

Division 15:      Mechanicals

         Solar energy equipment

         Wood burning equipment

         Ventilation equipment

         Plumbing - supply and waste

Division 16:      Electrical

         Lighting

Clip Art

The following clip art can be used with your company signs, newsletters and other printed materials promoting your Recycling Plus Program.

 

Field Guide
Developed for the
Construction Industry

Section 1:     Introduction

                        The Three R's................................................................................... 1-1

                        Tools You Can Use........................................................................... 1-2

                        Table 1: Basic Steps of the Recycling Plus Program............................ 1-3

                       

Section 2:     Planning Issues

                        What is a Recycling Plus Job-Site Action Plan?................................. 2-1

                        Job-Site Recovery Issues.................................................................. 2-1

                        Table 2: Project and Site Issues to Consider when
                              Developing a Job-Site Action Plan............................................... 2-2

                        Plan to ‘Reduce’............................................................................... 2-3

                        Table 3: Recycling Plus Ideas you can use to ‘Reduce’........................ 2-3

                        Plan to ‘Reuse’................................................................................. 2-4

                        Table 4: Recycling Plus Ideas you can use to ‘Reuse’.......................... 2-4

                        Plan to ‘Recycle’.............................................................................. 2-5

                        Table 5: Types of Materials Typically Generated in
                              Significant Amounts.................................................................... 2-6

                        Table 6: Types of Materials Typically Recovered Successfully.............. 2-7

                        Table 7: Recycling Plus Ideas you can use to ‘Recycle’....................... 2-8

Section 3:     Planning Tools

                        Recycling Plus Planning Tools Include............................................... 3-1

                        Table 8: Tips for Success.................................................................. 3-2

                        Job-Site Action Plan Worksheet........................................................ 3-3

                        Table 9: Currently Available Recycling Service Directories.................... 3-7

                        Table 10: Sample Provisions for a Full-Service
                              Recycling Agreement.................................................................. 3-8

                        Job-Site Action Plan Form.............................................................. 3-11

Section 4:     Communication Tools

                        Recycling Plus Communication Tools Include..................................... 4-1

                        Progress Checklist........................................................................... 4-2

                        Job-Site Signs.................................................................................. 4-8

                        Targeted Materials Definitions............................................................ 4-9

                        Tip Sheet for Job-Site Personnel (non-sub)........................................ 4-10
Section 5:     Motivational Tools

                        Recycling Plus Motivational Tools Include........................................... 5-1

                        Incentives........................................................................................ 5-2

                        Awards............................................................................................ 5-3

                        Samples.......................................................................................... 5-4

Section 6:     Evaluation Tools

                        Recycling Plus Evaluation Tools Include............................................. 6-1

                        Job-Site Waste Audits...................................................................... 6-2

                        Short Waste Audit Form................................................................... 6-4

                        Full Waste Audit Form...................................................................... 6-5

                        Project Tracking Costs and Materials................................................. 6-7

                        Cost/Materials Tracking Form............................................................ 6-9

                        Final Job-Site Evaluation Form........................................................ 6-13

Section 7:     Working with Subcontractors

                        Ensure Initial Commitment................................................................ 7-1

                        Table 11: Sample Language for Subcontractor Agreement.................... 7-1

                        Incorporate Subcontractors’ Suggestions............................................ 7-2

                        Distribute Subcontractor Kit.............................................................. 7-2

                        Table 12: Description of a Complete Subcontractor Kit......................... 7-3

                        Hold an Orientation Meeting.............................................................. 7-3

                        Communicate Results....................................................................... 7-4

                        Hold “Mid-Course” Assessment Meeting............................................. 7-4

Welcome to the Recycling Plus Program!  Developed by contractors for contractors, the Recycling Plus Program takes lessons learned out in the field about how to apply the three R’s -- Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle -- to your construction practices.  The Recycling Plus Program provides practical tools and tips to help your company save money, reduce waste on the job-site, and conserve natural resources.

The Three R's of the Recycling Plus Program

Recycling Plus Program techniques revolve around the three R’s -- Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.  Generally, its better (more resourceful) to reduce, than to reuse, and better to reuse than to recycle.  However, it’s not realistic to eliminate all waste, or salvage all materials not used on a particular job.

n          Reduce means to prevent waste before it happens.  You can reduce waste significantly on a construction project by “tweaking” your practices a bit; this means designing in less waste to begin with and minimizing damage and inefficient
material use.

n          Reuse means to reuse materials as much as possible in your construction project.  This includes:

n          Materials removed during demolition

n          Scrap generated on site

n          Used materials or scraps from other jobs

n          Recycle  means to separate recyclable materials from non-recyclable materials and supply them to a hauler or business so they can be processed and used to make new products.  Another aspect of recycling is to Buy Recycled.  Buying building materials with recycled content helps develop a market for the waste materials you recycle from your job site and “closes the loop”.

Tools You Can Use to Apply the Recycling Plus Program

n          Recycling Plus Field Guide:  In addition to helping you formulate a Job-Site Action Plan, the Field Guide provides you with field-tested checklists, forms, and samples to help you communicate, motivate, and evaluate the Recycling Plus Program.  Originals that can be photocopied are provided in the respective sections.  A disk containing a Cost/Materials Tracking Form is also available.

n          Recycling Plus Visual Aids:  As part of the Recycling Plus Program, your company's management personnel is provided with camera-ready clip art in multiple sizes that can be customized with your company name.  The clip-art is also available on disk for your use.  These can be used on job-site signs, hard hat stickers, T-shirts or other items you might want to use in your program.  In addition, the Field Guide includes reproducible tip sheets and signage.

n          Recycling Plus Program Subcontractor Kit:  The Subcontractor Kit is made up of several elements, some provided by corporate management, and some by field personnel.  Table 12 in Section 8 of the Field Guide outlines where to locate each Subcontractor Kit item.  Subcontractor Kit introduction materials and subcontractor tip sheets targeted to subcontractors who, by the nature of their trade, tend to produce the most recyclable waste, are provided in Part 3 of the Recycling Plus Program Manual.

What is a Recycling Plus Job-Site Action Plan?

Each construction project presents a different set of circumstances.  Because of this, it is best you develop a job-specific action plan.  A Recycling Plus Job-Site Action Plan outlines job-site waste reduction goals, identifies targeted materials, and describes specific waste reduction actions to be taken on the project, by whom, and when.  It should be developed and implemented by an individual staff member, selected either by the Project Manager or Job Superintendent.  You will find that as your company gains experience with the Recycling Plus Program you will develop an inventory of job-site action plans you can draw upon when making new plans.

The Planning Tools Section takes you step-by-step through a worksheet that will help you investigate options and formulate the action plan.  It also provides you with a blank Job-Site Action Plan Form.  A completed Job-Site Action Plan will include:

n          A completed Job-Site Action Plan Form

n          Copies of subcontractor language/specific subcontractor waste reduction commitments.

Specific Job-Site Recovery Issues

There are several factors on the job site that could directly affect your ability to reduce waste on the project you are managing.  As you walk through the planning

process you will be considering these issues, outlined in Table 2.

Plan to ‘Reduce’

When making your Job-Site Action Plan, you will be asked to consider specific methods of reducing waste before it happens.  Table 3 lists ideas.  Treat the list as you would a "menu," choosing only items that suit your project and site.

Plan to ‘Reuse’

When making your Job-Site Action Plan, you will be asked to consider specific methods of reducing waste before it happens.  Table 4 lists ideas.  Treat the list as you would a menu, choosing only those items that suit your project and site.

Plan to ‘Recycle’

There are many recyclable materials generated on construction sites that are typically thrown away.  Table 5 lists materials typically generated in significant amounts on construction sites.  Table 6 lists materials typically recovered successfully from construction sites.  In your Job-Site Action Plan, you will want to target only high potential materials.  This includes materials you generate the most volume of, that have the most market value (and as a result can be successfully recycled in the job-site area), and can be source-separated most easily.

Whatever materials you plan to recycle, your Job-Site Action Plan should make recycling as convenient and efficient as possible.  See Table 7 for a list of ideas. Again, treat the list as you would a menu, choosing only items that suit your project and site.

Recycling Plus Planning Tools Include:

1.         Worksheet (page 3-3)

A step-by-step worksheet that will help you investigate options and formulate the action plan for your specific job site. 

2.         Job-Site Action Plan Form (page 3-11)

            A blank form to be completed incorporating decisions made in the worksheet and used to communicate your Job-Site Action Plan to others on site and in the main office.

Job-Site Action Plan Worksheet

Project Name: _______________________        City & County of Site: _____________

Recycling Plus Site Coordinator: _____________________________     Date: _______

1.    Evaluate Your Project's Recycling Plus Potential.

       The Planning Issues Section of the Field Guide discusses job-site factors that can affect your ability to reduce, reuse and recycle.  Review these and note your concerns.

2.    Review Similar Projects.

       Consult with management staff member assigned to coordinating company's Recycling Plus Program for information regarding experience in other projects.  Also check if Job-Site Action Plans from other completed projects are available.  Look for other projects with characteristics and potential constraints similar to the new project. 

3.    Determine Reduce, Reuse and Buy Recycled Methods.

       Section 2, Planning Issues, discusses ‘Reduce’, ‘Reuse’ and ‘Buy Recycled’ methods that have been successfully implemented on other job-sites.  Review these options, brainstorm some of your own, and record your choices on the Job-Site Action Plan Form.

4.    Identify Potential Target Materials for Recycling.

       Identify a preliminary list of materials that may be targeted for the project (based on size and type of construction and other information you have about the project).  Table 6 in the Field Guide’s Planning Issues Section shows materials typically targeted for recycling, based on type and phase of construction.  Note that “peak” material generation (for a specific material type) can usually be correlated with phases of construction -- so you may target a material (for example, wood) during framing or concrete forming, but not during other phases of the project. 

       List potential materials.

                                                _______________________                                           _______________________                                           ___________________________            

                                                _______________________                                           _______________________                                           ___________________________            

                                                _______________________                                           _______________________                                           ___________________________            

5.    Research Potential Recycling Service Options.

       Choosing recycling services for a project is sometimes the responsibility of management, sometimes the responsibility of field personnel.  Check with the management staff member assigned to coordinating the Recycling Plus Program to clarify what has been done in this regard for your project. 

       Activities that are necessary for a successful Recycling Plus Program include the following list of services.

n          Sorting                                                  n     Level/Tarp Materials

n          Supply Bins                                           n     Supply Documentation

n          Supply Signs                                         n     Pick-up

n          Training

There are four recycling service options, including: hiring a full-service recycling contractor; using a garbage hauler who provides recycling services; operating an in-house recycling program; or making your subcontractors responsible for recycling their own materials.

(1)  Hire a Full-Service Recycling Contractor.  Many or all source-separation and collection tasks (and usually some training) are subcontracted to a

recycling contractor.  Full-service recycling contractors are beginning to enter the construction industry.  These contractors can provide training and on-site sorting services.  As you would any supplier, solicit the best service and the best fees (or prices) for materials you are targeting for recycling.

(2)  Use a Garbage Hauler’s Recycling Services.  Your garbage hauler may offer recycling services.  These services will generally be less complete than a full-service recycling contractor could provide, but may be sufficient if your own personnel can perform tasks your hauler doesn’t.  If the garbage hauler does not provide re-sorting services or training to prevent future mis-sorting, you’ll want to make sure you have a good in-house training program in place.  Mis-sorted material will generally be treated as garbage by your hauler, and you’ll miss out on recycling savings.

Make sure your Recycling Plus goals are reflected in any agreement you make with the garbage hauler.  At a minimum. your agreement should specify the list of materials you wish to be recycled, a rate schedule, a pick-up schedule, and a requirement for documentation of recycling.

Please note that although you may be restricted as to the hauler you use for garbage, current Washington State regulations hold you are free to use any service vendor you wish to handle your recycled materials.  Thus, if your garbage hauler does not provide recycling services you are free to hire other haulers or businesses who provide these services.

(3)  Operate an In-House Recycling Program.  Your Project Managers or other field personnel would be responsible for monitoring source-separation, collection, and ordering drop-off or pick-up.   In this scenario, you would be working directly with recycling services that accept certain recyclables identified as part of the construction, demolition or landclearing (CDL) waste stream.  They may provide pick-up services.  Their acceptance terms, fees, and/or rebates will vary, depending on the material and other factors.  You may also negotiate some recycling services with your hauler.  (See Item 2, above.)

(4)  Make Subs Responsible.  Your subcontractors would be completely responsible for setting up their own recycling and waste reduction programs (including source separating materials, maintaining bins, arranging drop-off or pick-up).  Although general contractors have often used this method, demonstration projects reveal results can be mixed.  Success of job-site recovery and waste reduction will depend on the individual subcontractor’s commitment to and familiarity with recycling and waste reduction practices.  It should be noted that some subcontractors have developed aggressive and effective recycling programs.  Try to take advantage of these as you create your Job-Site Action Plan.

6.    Identify Businesses Providing These Services.

       In this step, you will be identifying businesses providing full-service recycling, determining which recycling services your hauler can provide, and identifying other businesses providing recycling or waste reduction services (such as salvage). 
Table 9 provides a listing of directories of recycling services known as of
January 1996.  If no directory is listed for your area, call the Washington State Department of Ecology Recycling Hotline at 1-800-RECYCLE or your local solid waste office for information.

7.    Compare Rates and Other Factors and Negotiate Services.

       Use the table below to compare two service options (in-house vs. recycling contractor; two recycling contractors; or garbage hauler vs. recycling contractor.)

                  Supplier A:_____________                           Supplier B:_____________        

                  ___ Sort                                                      ___ Sort

                  ___ Supply Bins                                          ___ Supply Bins

                  ___ Supply Signs                                         ___ Supply Signs

                  ___ Level/Tarp Materials                               ___ Level/Tarp Materials

                  ___ Supply Documentation                           ___ Supply Documentation

                  ___ Pick-up                                                 ___ Pick-up

                  ___ Training/Orientation                                ___ Training/Orientation

                  Overall Cost  __________                             Overall Cost __________

                  Additional Benefits:                                      Additional Benefits:

                                                            _____________________________________                                                             ___________________________            

                                                            _____________________________________                                                             ___________________________            

8.    Finalize Agreement.

       If you operate an in-house recycling program using a garbage hauler, your agreement, at a minimum, should specify the list of materials you wish to be recycled off the site, a detailed rate schedule, a pick-up schedule, and a requirement for documentation of all recycling.  There are several other provisions you may include to ensure a successful recycling program.  Table 10 provides sample provisions when hiring a full-service recycling contractor.  Many of these provisions can be included in an agreement with a hauler providing recycling services.

9.    Finalize Targeted Materials Selection.

       Finalize targeted materials list based on availability of recycling and waste reduction services and input from key subcontractors who will be working on the job site.  Focus on high potential materials and practices.  Choose materials that are collected in your project area, that you generate the most volume of, that have the most market value, and that can be separated most easily.  Record targeted materials on the Job-Site Action Plan Form under the selected service provider.  Indicate peak generation for each material and address the listed operations issues.

10.  Set Recycling Goals.

       Establish recycling goals for the overall project.  The aim here is to divert as many materials from disposal as are cost-effective.  You will probably be able to achieve larger amounts over time as expertise with the Recycling Plus Program is acquired and as recycling options develop in your area.  Record your total job-site waste reduction goal on the Job-Site Action Plan Form. 

11.  Develop Communications Plan.

        There are several communication tools available that can be used to help you inform staff and subcontractors about Recycling Plus Goals and plans for the project.  Select communication tools from Section 4 that are appropriate for your project. Designate an individual to be responsible for implementing those tools on your job site along with target implementation dates.  Record your choices on the Job-Site Action Plan Form.

12.  Develop Motivational Plan.

        There are several motivational tools available that can be used to help you encourage staff and ensure subcontractor participation.  Select motivational tools from Section 5 applicable to this project. Designate an individual to be responsible for implementing those tools on your site along with target implementation dates.  Record your choices on the Job-Site Action Plan Form.

13.  Develop Evaluation Plan.

        There are several evaluation tools listed in Section 6 that can be used to help you track your progress and quantify results.  Choose tools applicable to your project.  Designate an individual to be responsible for implementing those tools on your site along with target implementation dates.  Record your choices on the Job-Site Action Plan Form.

14.  Ensure Subcontractor Commitment.

Develop or get from Management a copy of language in Subcontractor Agreement(s) requiring participation in the Recycling Plus Program.  It should specify their waste reduction commitments.  (You will attach it to the completed Job-Site Action Plan Form.)  If you are responsible for developing subcontractor agreements refer to the Working with Subcontractors Section for details.

Project Name: ________________________________  City and County: _________________

Recycling Plus Site Coordinator: ________________  Date: ___________________________

REDUCE, REUSE AND BUY RECYCLED ACTION ITEMS - See Planning Issues Section for options to choose from.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

RECYCLING GOAL - To recycle ____% of waste generated on the site.

Recycling Plus Communication Tools Include:

1.   Completed Job-Site Action Plan (page 3-11)

      As a result of using the Planning Tools provided in Section 3 of this Field Guide, you will have a completed Job-Site Action Plan Form.  Attach copies of subcontractor agreements including waste reduction requirements to the form to make up your completed Job-Site Action Plan.  Copies of this plan should be distributed to all key personnel (including Subcontractors, as part of the Subcontractor Kit.)  Any changes in the Plan during the project should be passed along to those guided by it.

2.   Checklists (page 4-2)

     A progress checklist is provided for you to adapt or use as is to make overheads or handouts for use at meetings.  Use them to make sure all elements of the Recycling Plus Program are covered.  The checklists are formatted so you can select only the topics you feel you need to cover.  Or, use the “Quick Assessment for Job-Site Team Meeting”, on page 4-7 for a quick review of key topics. 

3.   Job-Site Signs (page 4-8)

      Work with management personnel to develop job-site signs advertising the job-site’s participation in the company’s Recycling Plus Program and results.  Samples are provided in this section.

4.   Targeted Materials Definitions (page 4-9)

      These definitions can be laminated and posted on the job-site (at the trailer, or near bins) so there is no confusion as to the types and conditions of materials that are being recycled on site.  Examples are provided in this section.

5.   Tip Sheets for Job-Site Personnel (non-sub) (page 4-10)

      A tip sheet for job-site personnel is provided in this section.  It can be distributed at a kick-off meeting to answer common questions.  Additional tip sheets specifically geared for major subcontractors are included in the Subcontractor Kit.

U  How Well Are We Getting the Word Out On the Job-Site?

o   Have we held an orientation meeting to kick off the program, making sure key personnel including job-site recycling coordinator, superintendents, foremen, key subcontractors and service providers are invited?

o   Have we provided information to field personnel on types of materials targeted for recycling?

o   Have we posted clear definitions of targeted materials on the bins and in an information area on site?

o   Have we distributed Subcontractor Kits to subs generating significant amounts of targeted materials?

o   Are we using weekly safety or project meetings to report progress, provide information, and brainstorm new ways to reduce waste on-site?

o   Have we scheduled a meeting of key field personnel to perform a mid-course assessment reviewing progress and discussing areas needing improvement? Did we provide the most recently completed short or full waste audit information at the meeting?

o   Are we posting results such as types or amount of materials recycled on a job-site sign?

U  How Well Are We Using Incentives to Encourage Enthusiastic Participation?

o   Are we providing positive awareness incentives, such as hard-hat stickers and T-shirts using the company’s customized Recycling Plus logo, to active participants in the Recycling Plus Program “Team?”

o   Are we planning to thank participating subcontractors by listing their name in conjunction with job-site signs advertising monthly job-site recycling results?

o   Have we empowered forklift operators to help educate people in the proper way to handle recyclable materials, require people who are mis-sorting or otherwise mishandling recyclable materials to resort the materials themselves, or charge a fee to individuals “contaminating” loads?

o   Are we planning awards activities at project completion?  Have we announced the awards program?

U  How Well Are We Making Recycling Convenient and Efficient?

o   Have we provided bins for all materials targeted for recycling?

o   Are we using bins that suit the site?

o   cranable: for multi-story buildings

o   smaller or mobile: for quick-moving or
hard-to-get-at projects

o   sectioned with dividers: for smaller quantities
or hard-to-get-at projects

o   Have we provided removable (but sturdy) signs for bins so they can be quickly allocated to different materials?

    

o   Have we provided clear and easy to read signs on bins?  Are they bilingual or pictorial, if necessary?

o   Are we avoiding damage to recycling bins by treating them like other valuable equipment?

o   Are we avoiding contamination of recyclables by making sure there’s a convenient trash option along with recycling bins?

o   Are we avoiding unnecessary pickups (and charges) by making sure containers are full and packed down before we start using empty or half-full ones?

o   Are we avoiding extra steps? Are containers are as close as possible to where material is being generated?  Do we notify the forklift operator or recycling contractor to move bins if they’re not conveniently located?

U  How Well Are We Seeking Opportunities to Reduce Waste?

o   Are we avoiding damage? What’s the best way to make sure all site crews handle and store materials properly?

o   Are we using materials efficiently?  How can we make better use of scraps and use less materials overall?  Can we improve accuracy of materials estimates?

o   In demolition jobs, are we planning to salvage?  Can we donate or sell salvaged materials?

o   Are we using salvaged materials from this or other jobs?

Also, when building supply purchases are made from the field:

o   Are we reducing packaging waste by  patronizing suppliers who take back packaging?  Are we taking advantage of bulk sales discounts?

o   Are we encouraging just-in-time deliveries?  This will reduce chances of materials becoming damaged in storage.

o   Are we using products with recycled content?

         

o   Are we asking suppliers to provide information to help calculate more accurately the amount of materials needed?

o   Are we purchasing precut and prefab components?

o   Are we choosing strong materials and exploiting their structural advantages?

U  How Well Are We Tracking Progress and Making Improvements?

o   Are we performing a short waste audit from time to time? What’s in the garbage and shouldn’t be?  Where can improvements be made?

o   Are we performing a full waste audit, if a short form waste audit indicates it is necessary?

o   Are we using the results of waste audits at a mid-course assessment meeting or at weekly safety or project meetings to inform site crews of areas for improvement?

o   Are we tracking dollars saved/expended and materials recycled/disposed on a monthly basis and at project end using the Recycling Plus Tracking Form?

o   Do we plan to perform a final evaluation at project completion?

o   Are we planning to incorporate improvements suggested by final evaluation in our next project’s Recycling Plus Plan?  Do we plan to provide this information to management personnel and other company Project Managers?

U  Quick Assessment for Job-Site Team Meeting

o   As of ____________ (date), what percentage of our “waste” are we recycling?

o   Does everyone know what materials are being recycled on this job?

o   Does everyone know what materials are acceptable for recycling? (Refer to posted definitions for targeted materials.)

o   What’s in the garbage and shouldn’t be? (Refer to waste audits, including slides if you have them).

o   Does everyone knows where different materials go? (Refer to signs, color codes, or other means of determining collection sites.)

o   How can we reduce waste in the first place? (Refer to job personnel and subcontractor tip sheets.)

U  Tips for Site Crews:

o   Make sure recycling containers are full before using empty or half-full ones.

o   Make sure bins are as close as possible to where material is being generated.

o   Treat recycling bins with care as you would any other expensive equipment.

o   Make suggestions when you have ideas for improving the recycling and waste reduction program.

Job Site Signs

Targeted Materials Definition Examples

Check all categories that apply. This information should be posted prominently on the job-site trailer or on or near recycling bins and should be visable from a distance.

 

Job-Site Personnel

What You Can Do to Maximize Recycling

q Separate and recycle wood, cardboard, metal, drywall and other recyclable materials

q Make sure both interior containers and exterior recycling dumpsters are convenient and clearly labeled

q Inform new personnel where the recycling containers are located and which materials are recyclable--

q Move trash and recycling containers close to each other, making it convenient to recycle

q Store materials to prevent damage

q Measure carefully to avoid end cuts and keep scraps in a convenient central area

q Check recycling and garbage bins for mis-sorted materials

q Provide suggestions to people who are mis-sorting recyclable materials or ask your superintendent or safety manager to inform them

q Identify large quantities of waste that are not being recycled, and ask your superintendent if they can be recycled or reduced

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________      

Recycling Plus Motivation Tools Include:

1.   Program Incentives (page 5-2)

      The Motivation Tools Section provides some suggestions for ways you can encourage full participation in the Recycling Plus Program.

2.   Program Awards (page 5-3)

      The Motivation Tools Section provides some suggestions for ways you can reward success on your site. 

Incentives

To get the best results from a Job-Site Action Plan, all personnel having an impact on the amount of waste generated on the site need to participate fully.  The Recycling Plus Program makes suggestions how to motivate them to do this.  You may choose to use all or some of them, or you may think of some yourself.  (If you do, please include them in your final evaluation form, so this information can be passed on to the rest of the company.)

Incentives suggested include both the "carrot" and "stick" variety.

n          Provide incentives that both raise awareness on the site about the Program and generate team spirit, including: hard hat stickers, T-shirts, or caps sporting the company's customized Recycling Plus Program Logo.  A sample of a hard hat sticker is provided in this section.

n          While the job is in progress, recognize participating subcontractors and suppliers by name on job-site signs with the Recycling Plus Program Logo.  A sample sign is provided in this section.

n          Serve refreshments at orientation or mid-course assessment meetings.  And keep meetings brief (too-long meetings act as a dis-incentive.)

n          If the Subcontractor Agreement included language requiring subcontractors to participate in the Recycling Plus Program then you may be able to make final payments to subcontractors dependent on their participation and cooperation (See Section 7 for samples of contractual language.)

n          Apply "peer pressure" by having fork-lift operators or other site personnel make suggestions to people who are mis-sorting or otherwise mis-handling recyclable materials.

n          Require site personnel who are mis-sorting or otherwise mishandling recyclable materials to correct the situation, by re-sorting the materials themselves. (Fork-lift operators or Job Superintendent can be empowered to enforce this requirement).

n          Charge a fee to individuals "contaminating" loads -- the fee could be equivalent to fee the recycling contractor would charge for resorting, or equivalent to waste disposal fees if it can’t be re-sorted. (Fork-lift operators or job superintendent can be empowered to enforce this requirement.)

Awards

Reward success at project completion.  Although it is up to you to decide what awards or system of recognition makes most sense for your site, it should be consistent with awards programs at other sites, and emphasize teamwork.  Make sure all site personnel are aware of the awards program.

Some awards ideas include:

n          Recycling Plus T-shirts (if not used as an incentive) or Jackets.

n          Letters of recognition thanking subcontractors and suppliers for participating in the Recycling Plus Program.  These letters can be used as part of their marketing/advertising program.  A sample letter is provided in this section.

n          Awards Luncheon

Samples

   Job-Site Sign

Recycling Plus Evaluation Tools Include:

1. Job-Site Waste Audit Forms (page 6-4)

     The most effective Recycling Plus Programs will include some method for providing “feedback” on how well the program is working.  Tracking project costs can tell you if you are saving money (see item #2), but it cannot tell you why you are saving money and if you are saving all you can.  In addition, although job-site participants may have opinions about these issues, the proof is “in the dumpster.”  Even in projects where recycling is mandated, waste audits can reveal opportunities for increased savings, such as significant amounts of recyclables ending up in garbage bins, or non-recyclables ending up in bins designated for recyclables.  The bottom line is that you want to recycle as much material as possible, as cost-effectively as possible. Waste audits can help you do that by providing you with feedback while a project is still in progress.

      Waste audit results (including photos/slides taken during the audit) can be effective in both training and assessment meetings.  Two options are provided -- a short audit, and a more detailed full audit requiring a “dumpster dive”.  Both rely on visual estimates, and neither require scales or special equipment.

2.   Project Tracking Costs and Materials Form (page 6-9)

     The Recycled Plus Program provides you with a method of tracking the costs/savings and materials recycled/disposed on a monthly basis and at project end.  The results can be posted on job-site signs and used for publicity and marketing for future work.  The form is available on disk with Recycling Plus Program Materials.

     

3.   Final Job-Site Evaluation Form (page 6-13)

      Use this form at job completion to evaluate how well you met your goals, methods you want to retain or discard, and to make suggestions for improvements to the Recycling Plus Program.  Make sure a copy of this completed form is passed on to the management staff member responsible for coordinating the company-wide Recycling Plus Program.

Job-Site Waste Audits

The Recycling Plus Program offers two waste audit options.  In conducting these audits, we suggest you choose to monitor the top 3-5 categories of materials of which you generate the most volume.

The Short Waste Audit Form, which:

n          allows you to quickly assess if improvements need to be made to your recycling program.

n          checks for mis-sorted materials in one garbage dumpster and two recycling containers.

n          takes approximately 15 minutes to use.

n          should be used monthly, or at a minimum during major shifts in construction activities.

n          identifies specific items that may be hindering your recycling program and can be addressed for immediate results.

n          asks you to identify major subcontractors on site contributing to the waste stream.

n          allows you to calculate the cubic yards of garbage and recyclables on site and see the volume of your waste that is being redirected.

n          creates a record over time to show improvement in sorting or phases of the job that need extra attention.

n          provides data to allow you to assess the necessity for a Full Waste Audit.

The Full Waste Audit Form, which:

n          allows you to quantify the amount of recyclables being thrown away and to identify missed opportunities.

n          leads you through the removal and sorting of material from one garbage dumpster and a visual check of two recycling bins. 

n          provides a listing of potential categories of materials for sorting the garbage dumpster.

n          takes up to an hour and will most likely happen only once per project.

n          should be scheduled a quarter to a third through the project to allow time to make changes in the project’s Recycling Plus Job-Site Action Plan, if necessary.

n          can be done in conjunction with the mid-course assessment.  Slides taken during a waste audit of recyclables found in the garbage dumpster can be very effective.

n          identifies specific items that may be hindering your recycling program and can be addressed for immediate results.

n          asks you to identify major subcontractors on site contributing to the waste stream.

Waste Audit Results Can Indicate a Change in the Job-Site Action Plan is Necessary.

An audit may reveal that more of a particular material is being generated on site than originally anticipated.  If so, the material should perhaps be targeted for the remainder of the project.   The waste audit is also a good “trigger” to check if new recycling options have become available since project startup. You might be able to recycle more types of materials and increase potential savings.

SHORT WASTE AUDIT FORM

FULL WASTE AUDIT FORM

FULL WASTE AUDIT FORM

Tracking Project Costs and Materials

The Recycled Plus Program provides you with a method of tracking the costs and amounts of materials recycled and/or disposed on a monthly basis, and at project completion.  It enables you to quantify:

n          the weight and volume of materials recycled (by type).

n          the weight and volume of materials disposed as garbage.

n          the cost of recycling materials.

n          the cost of disposing materials as garbage.

Using the Tracking Form provided you can determine how cost effective your efforts to reduce waste and increase recycling are compared to a scenario in which no recycling is done on the project.  These results can be posted on job-site signs, and used for publicity and marketing once the job is complete.

To Use the Costs and Materials Tracking Form:

Note: The Costs and Materials Tracking Form is intended to be used on a computer.  If you do not have the capacity to use an Excel file you can use the form manually but we suggest you enlarge it to make it more user-friendly.

Step 1:    Gather monthly garbage (and recycling) invoices. Your hauler should be able to provide these.  You’ll need to refer to these when completing the job-site summary form.

Step 2:    Track costs of recycling (use your receipts for recycling, or, if you have contracted with full-service recycling contractor, require documentation as part of the contract.)

Step 3:    Estimate “base” (costs without recycling):

3a:    Find amount of material that would have been disposed if not recycled:

n     Convert amount of recycled materials picked up (hauled) to the equivalent amount of garbage pickups (hauls). 

      For example, if garbage is being picked up in a 30 cubic yard bin on the job, and wood waste is being collected in 13 yard bins -- 2 wood waste bin pickups would be the equivalent of .86 garbage pickup.

n     Use equivalents (see form) for material types to determine tonnage of the materials being converted.

n     Don’t forget to include (estimate) the amount of materials recycled on site (for example, asphalt, concrete ground and used for fill, or stumps ground and used as cover).  (If it’s easier to estimate in yardage because the materials are being moved in yard-vehicles then do that, but you’ll need to convert to tons if you want to convert to disposal costs.)

3b:    Multiply tonnage by current per ton disposal rate.

3c:     Add taxes and haul fees (refer to garbage invoices to determine per
ton rate).

COST / MATERIALS TRACKING FORM

COST / MATERIALS TRACKING FORM

COST / MATERIALS TRACKING FORM

FINAL JOB-SITE EVALUATION FORM

Ensure Initial Commitment 

Subcontractors need to be aware of and committed to the recycling and waste reduction objectives set in the project’s Recycling Plus Plan.  This starts with the bid and contract negotiation process, which begins at the management level.  However, you may be responsible for negotiating agreements with some subcontractors.  If so:

1.   Require a Commitment to the Overall Program. Language in the subcontractor agreement should commit subcontractors to comply with the company's Recycling Plus Job Site Action Plan.  

2.   Require Full Participation in Training and Assessment.  Additional language could require the subcontractor to attend orientation and mid-course assessment meetings as part of fulfilling their waste reduction requirements.

3.   Require Recycling Plus Purchasing Practices.  The agreement can also include a requirement for purchasing recycled-content building products and packaging whenever feasible.  (In a partnering situation, your company can work with the owner to include such provisions in the original specifications.)

4.   Solicit Input from Subcontractors.  Ask for specific waste reduction ideas subcontractors could implement on the project.

5.   Recognize Subcontractor Participation.  Whether it's required or not, subcontractor participation should be recognized, through job-site signage, or other means.

Incorporate Subcontractors’ Suggestions

If subcontractors have offered waste reduction ideas in the bid process consult with them when drafting the project's Job-Site Action Plan.  Even if they have not, their input in developing the plan is important if buy-in is to be sustained and participation positive.

Some subcontractors have instituted effective recycling programs.  Encourage these efforts by incorporating their current methods into your Job-Site Action Plan.

Distribute Subcontractor Kit

The Subcontractor Kit is a tool you can use to get subs on board. To streamline the communication process individual Kits can be geared to the particular project, as well as targeted to individual subs.  Table 12 below specifies what is contained in a completed Subcontractor Kit and where you will find it.  The “shell” for the Kit is found in Part 3 of the Recycling Plus Program Manual.  In addition, you will need material from the Field Guide and from Management.

Hold an Orientation Meeting

Meet with subcontractor’s field personnel to make sure they fully understand project’s recycling and waste reduction goals and recommended methods.  Make sure you provide incentives for attending this meeting such as contractual agreement or refreshments.

Communicate Results

Safety or other regularly scheduled meetings and job-site signs can be used to convey results to subs on the site.  Safety meetings are especially important because subcontractors and laborers coming on site later in the project (and after the initial kickoff efforts) can be made aware of the program.  Job-site signs can provide recognition to participating subcontractors by listing them by name.  (See Communication Tools Section  for examples of possible sign layout.)

Hold “Mid-Course” Assessment Meeting

This meeting is an opportunity to get subcontractor’s suggestions on how to improve the project’s recycling efforts.  For best results it should be held in conjunction with “mid-course” assessment meeting planned for all field personnel.

Subcontractor Kit

Developed for the

Construction Industry

by

Fletcher Wright Construction

with

O’Brien & Company

Sound Resource Management Group

and ReTAP, a program of the Clean Washington Center

January 1996

Section 1:     Introduction............................................................................. 1-1

                       

Section 2:     Completed Job-Site Action Plan........................................ 2-1

Section 3:     Targeted Materials Checklist.............................................. 3-1

Section 4:     Tip Sheets................................................................................ 4-1

Welcome to the Recycling Plus Program!  Developed by contractors for contractors, the Recycling Plus Program takes lessons learned out in the field about how to apply the three R’s -- Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle -- to your construction practices.  The Recycling Plus Program provides practical tools and tips to help your company save money, reduce waste on the job-site, and conserve natural resources.

The Three R's of the Recycling Plus Program

Recycling Plus Program techniques revolve around the three R’s -- Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.  Generally, its better (more resourceful) to reduce, than to reuse, and better to reuse than to recycle.  However, it’s not realistic to eliminate all waste, or salvage all materials not used on a particular job.

n          Reduce means to prevent waste before it happens.  You can reduce waste significantly on a construction project by “tweaking” your practices a bit; this means designing in less waste to begin with and minimizing damage and inefficient material use.

n          Reuse means to reuse materials as much as possible in your construction project.  This includes:

n          Materials removed during demolition

n          Scrap generated on site

n          Used materials or scraps from other jobs

n          Recycle  means to separate recyclable materials from non-recyclable materials and supply them to a hauler or business so they can be processed and used to make new products.  Another aspect of recycling is to Buy Recycled.  Buying building materials with recycled content helps develop a market for the waste materials you recycle from your job site and “closes the loop.”

The Recycling Plus Program Subcontractor Kit

The Kit is intended as a tool you can use to help your crews participate in the project's Recycling Plus Program.  The Kit includes:

1.   A copy of the project’s Job-Site Action Plan, which includes:

n          a completed Job-Site Action Plan Form;

n          a copy of contractual language covering your waste reduction and recycling requirements.

2.   A job-site checklist identifying acceptable options for targeted materials that can be converted into a poster for your trailer or other appropriate location.

3.   Tip sheets listing planning and on-site ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.  Tip sheets also provide subs with an additional opportunity (beyond the initial bid process) to make suggestions that can be incorporated in the Program.

 

DRYWALL

Tip Sheet

Planning

q Order drywall with recycled content gypsum (commonly available from Domtar and USG)

q To reduce waste and your costs, accurately order the amount of material needed

q To encourage efficient use of materials, avoid paying installers on the basis of sheets of material installed (try using sq. ft. installed instead)

     

On-Site

q Store materials so they are not damaged

q Measure carefully to avoid end cuts

q Separate and recycle waste drywall

q Make sure both interior containers and exterior recycling dumpsters are convenient and clearly labeled

q Save sizable pieces of drywall for use around doors, windows or built-ins, or for reuse on another job

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________      

WOOD

Tip Sheet

Planning

q To reduce waste and your costs, accurately order the amount of material needed

q Use salvaged building materials, for example cabinets or trim

q Try new building systems such as modular systems or foam-core panels that minimize the use of wood (that contain recycled wood chips or wood from small diameter secondary trees)

     

On-Site

q Separate and recycle wood

q Make sure both interior containers and exterior recycling dumpsters are convenient and clearly labeled

q Store materials so they are not damaged

q Measure carefully to avoid end cuts

q Save sizable pieces of wood in a central area for use as spacers, blocking, kindling, or for use on another job

q Designate a central area for end-cuts and damaged wood, making it convenient for carpenters to find and use scrap wood

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________      

MECHANICAL

Tip Sheet

Planning

q Order electrical, plumbing and other mechanical supplies with recycled content

q Try precut and prefabricated components such as commercial heating and cooling ductwork or commercial sprinkler systems

q To reduce waste and your costs, accurately order the amount of material needed

q Ask your vendors to reduce the amount of packaging (pallets, cardboard, plastic shrink wrap, metal bands) that is delivered to the job-site

q Ask your vendors to take non-recyclable packaging back for reuse

On-Site

q Separate and recycle cardboard

q Separate and recycle plastic, such as PVC pipe

q Make sure both interior containers and exterior recycling dumpsters are convenient and clearly labeled

q Store materials so they are not damaged

q Measure carefully to avoid end cuts

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________      

ELECTRICAL

Tip Sheet

Planning

q Order electrical supplies with recycled content

q To reduce waste and your costs, accurately order the amount of material needed

q Ask your vendors to reduce the amount of packaging (pallets, cardboard, plastic shrink wrap, metal bands) that is delivered to the job-site

q Ask your vendors to take non-recyclable packaging back for reuse

On-Site

q Separate and recycle cardboard

q Separate and recycle metals and wire

      Separate and recycle PVC, if possible

q Make sure both interior containers and exterior recycling dumpsters are convenient and clearly labeled

q Store materials so they are not damaged

q Measure carefully to avoid end cuts

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________      

PLUMBING

Tip Sheet

Planning

q Order plumbing and other mechanical supplies with recycled content

q To reduce waste and your costs, accurately order the amount of material needed

q Ask your vendors to reduce the amount of packaging (pallets, cardboard, plastic shrink wrap, metal bands) that is delivered to the job-site

q Ask your vendors to take non-recyclable packaging back for reuse

On-Site

q Retain PVC cut-offs for use as stubs for wall drains

q Properly clean joints to prevent leaking

q Separate and recycle cardboard

q Separate and recycle plastic, including PVC if possible

q Make sure both interior containers and exterior recycling dumpsters are convenient and clearly labeled

q Store materials so they are not damaged

q Measure carefully to avoid end cuts

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________      

CONCRETE

Tip Sheet

Planning

q Use concrete mix containing fly ash as part of the cementitious content of the concrete

q Request CMU’s that contain recycled content from your current supplier

     

On-Site

q Separate and recycle asphalt and concrete

q Use reusable forms and supports to the maximum extent possible

q Reuse removed crushed concrete and asphalt as aggregate, sub-base material or fill

q Designate a location for excess concrete for use in paving, post footing anchorage, reinforcement, etc.

q Store materials so that they are not damaged or discolored

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________      

SITE/LANDCLEARING

Tip Sheet

Planning

q Use asphalt paving with recycled content

q Use concrete mix containing fly ash as part of the cementitious content of the concrete

On-Site

q Separate and recycle asphalt and concrete

q Sell all marketable trees designated for removal. Grind, chip or shred other vegetation for mulching, composting.

q Separate stumps, brush and other wood waste for recycling

q Separate and recycle rebar and other metals

q Reuse removed crushed concrete and asphalt as aggregate, sub-base material or fill

q When remodeling older buildings, save finishes such as bricks, to match remaining finish or preserve an antique brick look

q Provide on-site locations for as much excavated rock, soil and vegetation as possible

Your Suggestions

q _____________________________________________________________      

q _____________________________________________________________