Small builders working in challenging economic conditions could unlock valuable cost benefits by using a new waste-saving guide from sustainable business experts Envirowise.
The free guide - available online at www.envirowise.gov.uk/EN922
- outlines a step-by-step review process which can help businesses identify the main causes of waste around their site and save as much as 40% on waste disposal costs.
With around 11.6 million tonnes of construction waste generated across the East of England each year1, the cost saving potential for the UK runs into hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Savings can be achieved by making simple low-cost or no-cost changes such as segregating waste at source. For example, reducing waste by 20% can cut a businesses waste disposal costs by 40% and waste to landfill by 60%. With annual landfill tax rises recently confirmed until 2013, there is clearly an imperative for businesses to take action.
Envirowise Regional Manager for the East of England, Simon Best, said: "The Federation of Master Builder's latest State of Trade survey shows that economic conditions for small builders in the UK continue to be very challenging2. However, reducing waste costs is a straightforward, effective way to help improve the bottom-line and this new guide demonstrates how to secure significant cost savings with little or no up front investment required.
"Running a resource efficient business can also help builders to better manage their potential liabilities, reducing their exposure to costly fines from improper waste management processes, as well as ensuring they are well placed to make the most of the recovery when it comes."
For more general advice regarding resource efficiency in construction builders can visit www.envirowise.gov.uk/construction or call the Envirowise Advice Line on 0800 585 794.
Ends
Media Contacts:
Kate Sturley or Peter Stilwell at Trimedia on 0117 929 2311 or email kate.sturley@trimediauk.com or peter.stilwell@trimediauk.com.
Notes to Editors
1. Defra - Estimated re-use, recycling and disposal of hard construction & demolition and excavation waste by region in 2005
2. FMB State of Trade Survey 2009 Q1
About Envirowise
Envirowise is a Government-funded programme dedicated to putting the sustainable use of resources at the heart of UK business practice.
Since 1994 Envirowise has helped UK businesses save over £1bn by enabling them to significantly reduce their environmental footprints.
Envirowise offers businesses of all sizes and sectors a wide range of free, independent and practical advice designed to genuinely improve their processes, profitability and competitiveness. Services include:
- The Envirowise Advice Line on 0800 585 794
- An encyclopaedic website (www.envirowise.gov.uk) of valuable and relevant information
- Over 200 events each year, from Product Design Workshops to major exhibitions