...jobsites is entered into the system.
“On average we are hitting 65 to 75 percent diversion,” explains Myrrh Caplan, Skanska program manager. “For LEED projects we are averaging 75-80 percent.”
Although Skanska does not require haulers to submit data electronically, Caplan notes that some haulers are providing reports that include the information required by the USGBC. “I think the majority of haulers realized the benefit of having the reports because it helps them to sell their services to LEED projects.”
Many waste management firms rely upon manual methods or Excel to compile and report information. Cardella sends reports in Excel to all its clients and is in the process of upgrading its website to enable online access to reports documenting LEED credits.
“We are trying to make it as easy as possible to transfer information from our system to the LEED template,” Cardella explains.
Houston-based Waste Management is currently investigating a number of enterprise solutions to provide customers with electronic reporting, says Jim Halter, Vice President for Construction Solutions.
Growing Demand
Turner and Skanska are among a growing number of contractors with waste diversion goals. “An increasing number of contractors and owners with sustainability goals are requesting more diversion,” Halter says.
Another factor driving demand for waste diversion services is state and local regulations. “This is an emerging trend that is picking up some speed,” Halter explains.
Cardella attributes increased volumes at his recycling facility to green building initiatives. “Since green building has become more prevalent, it has helped us get jobs we wouldn’t normally get because we recycle and report,” he says.
Growing demand to recycle construction and demolition (C&D) wastes is creating new opportunities for waste recycling services. “LEED has really helped to drive our market,” says Hans Taylor, president of Taylor Recycling Facility.
Taylor’s C&D recycling plant in Montgomery, N.Y. converts 94 percent of the wastes received into end products. The plant employs hand sorting and mechanical equipment to recycle unadulterated wood, mixed...
