Steps to tackle plastic pollution at construction site

 Here are some actionable steps to tackle plastic pollution: -

By 

Shri Tito Suresh 

Technip

1. Minimize Plastic Use.

Choose Alternative Materials: opt for biodegradable or reusable materials instead of single-use plastics. For example, use hard barricading instead of plastic barricading tape, snow fencing, plastic agro nets etc.

Avoid Over-Packaging: Work with suppliers to reduce unnecessary plastic packaging for construction materials.

Use Reusable Items: Replace single-use plastic items like water bottles, cutlery, and cups with reusable alternatives.

2. Implement the Waste Management Plan effectively.

Conduct a Waste Audit: Identify the types and quantities of plastic waste generated on-site to develop a targeted reduction strategy.

Segregate Waste: Set up separate bins for plastics, metals, wood, and other materials to make recycling easier.

Tie-Up with Recycling Facilities: Collaborate with local authorized recycling companies to ensure the proper disposal and recycling of plastic waste. Obtain certificates from these facilities to validate and claim the quantity of waste recycled.

3.Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Campaign.

Promote the reuse of construction materials like wood, metal, and concrete.

Set up a recycling station for materials like plastic, paper, and scrap metal.

Share examples of how waste materials from the site can be repurposed creatively.

4. Educate and Train Workers

Raise Awareness: Train workers on the importance of reducing plastic waste and how to properly segregate and dispose of it. Conduct a workshop or training session on proper waste segregation (e.g., separating recyclable, non-recyclable, and hazardous waste).

5.Promote Eco-Friendly Practices:

Encourage workers to bring reusable water bottles, lunch containers, and other sustainable items to the site.

6.Organise and Participate in Clean-Up Drives:

Organize and participate in community clean-up events to address plastic pollution in and around construction sites.

7. Tree Planting Drive

Organize a tree-planting event around the construction site or in nearby areas.

Involve workers, engineers, and management in planting native trees or shrubs.

Partner with local environmental organizations to ensure proper tree selection and maintenance.

8. Work with Sustainable Suppliers and adopt circular economy practices: -

Choose suppliers that use minimal plastic packaging or offer take-back programs for packaging materials. Use construction materials made from recycled plastics.

9. Highlight Success Stories

Share examples of how the construction site has already contributed to environmental sustainability (e.g., reduced emissions, recycled materials, preserved the green belt or old planted trees, community cleaning drive etc). Use posters, banners, or presentations.

By implementing these strategies, we can significantly reduce our contribution to plastic pollution, protect the environment, and promote sustainable development.