How to reduce waste in construction

Construction and demolition are among the largest sources of waste in the UK and globally. According to the UK Government, the construction sector produces 138 million tonnes of waste annually, accounting for over 60% of total UK waste. Reducing construction waste is therefore not only an environmental necessity but also a compliance and cost-saving opportunity for businesses.

In this blog, we’ll explain what construction waste is, why it matters, and how businesses can reduce it effectively.

What is construction waste?

Construction waste includes:

• Building materials – wood, plaster, metal, concrete

• Dredging materials – rubble, dirt, trees

• Hazardous substances – asbestos, solvents, mercury

A 2018 study showed that of the 138 million tonnes of construction and demolition waste generated in the UK, around 63 million tonnes were recovered through recycling or downcycling, while 5 million tonnes were sent to landfill.

Why is construction waste harmful?

Construction waste can:

• Damage local ecosystems and biodiversity

• Pollute air, water, and soil

• Pose serious health risks when hazardous materials are involved

For example:

• Asbestos, commonly found in buildings pre-2000, can cause asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancers.

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from solvents can be harmful but may be recovered through distillation and filtering, supporting a circular economy approach.

What are the environmental impacts of construction and demolition waste?

The construction sector is estimated to contribute 39% of global greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to energy-intensive material production and waste mismanagement.

Reducing construction waste therefore directly supports climate action and helps businesses move toward net zero carbon targets.

How can construction waste be reduced?

There are several strategies to reduce waste and improve sustainability in construction:

1. Downcycling

Materials like concrete can be crushed and repurposed for roads and pavements. While this extends material use, it is usually the final stage of recycling.

2. Recycling

Many construction materials can be reintroduced into the value chain:

• Steel: Around 40% of global steel production comes from scrap metal, with only 1% ending up in landfill.

• Wood, glass, and metals: These can often be reused in new projects, reducing virgin material demand.

3. Circular solutions

Innovations in material design and recovery enable waste to be treated as a resource, closing the loop and cutting emissions.

Why partner with Reconomy?

At Reconomy, we believe all waste should be managed sustainably. Through our circular economy in construction expertise and data-driven technology, we help construction businesses:

• Identify and separate materials effectively

• Reduce costs and emissions through smarter waste management

• Comply with UK and EU waste regulations

• Embed circularity into project delivery

Contact us today to discuss sustainable waste solutions for your construction projects.