Module 6: Waste Management & Environmental Considerations 

Demolition generates massive amounts of waste, but proper management can minimize environmental impact while complying with regulations. This module covers debris sorting, recycling, sustainable practices, and pollution control measures.

1. Sorting and Recycling Demolition Debris

A. Types of Demolition Waste

1. Concrete & Masonry (40-50% of total debris)

• Recycled as aggregate for new construction.

2. Wood & Timber (20-30%)

• Reused in flooring, mulch, or biomass fuel.

3. Metals (Steel, Copper, Aluminum) (5-10%)

• High scrap value; 98% recyclable.

4. Asphalt Roofing

• Repurposed in road repair.

5. Hazardous Materials (asbestos, lead, chemicals)

• Requires special disposal (see Module 5).

B. Waste Sorting Process

1. On-Site Separation

• Designate bins for concrete, metal, wood, and hazardous waste.

2. Crushing & Screening

• Mobile crushers process concrete into reusable gravel.

3. Off-Site Recycling Facilities

• Certified centers further sort and process materials.

C. Benefits of Recycling Debris

• Cost Savings: Reduces landfill fees.

• Regulatory Compliance: Many states mandate 50-75% recycling rates.

• LEED Credits: Contributes to green building certifications.

2. Sustainable Demolition Practices

A. Deconstruction Over Demolition

• Selective Dismantling: Salvaging doors, windows, and fixtures for reuse.

• Example: The EPA estimates 90% of building materials can be reclaimed.

B. Circular Economy Strategies

1. Material Banks

• Storing reclaimed bricks, steel, and timber for future projects.

2. Prefab Recycling

• Designing buildings for easier future disassembly.

C. Energy & Emissions Reduction

• Electric/Hybrid Equipment (lower carbon footprint than diesel).

• Local Recycling (cuts transportation emissions).

3. Dust and Noise Control Measures

A. Dust Suppression Techniques

1. Water Spraying

• Misting systems on excavators and debris piles.

2. Enclosures & Barriers

• Temporary fencing with dust curtains.

3. Chemical Stabilizers

• Polymers bind dust without water.

B. Noise Mitigation Strategies

1. Equipment Modifications

• Silencers on jackhammers and compressors.

2. Scheduling

• Limited operations during early morning/evening in residential zones.

3. Sound Barriers

• Acoustic fencing or straw bales around sites.

C. Regulatory Limits

• OSHA: 90 dB max (8-hour exposure).

• Local Ordinances: Often restrict noise to 65-75 dB at property lines.

Conclusion

Module 6 demonstrates how strategic waste sorting, recycling, and pollution controls make demolition projects more sustainable and compliant. These practices reduce environmental harm while often lowering project costs through material recovery.