Before you start your next construction, demolition, or remodeling project, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a few suggestions that can help to save you money and protect the environment.
1) Contact your state’s environmental protection office. They can provide information for recyclers and waste haulers. This will help you in recycling as much of your waste materials as possible.
2) Investigate local salvage businesses before purchasing new materials and products. Many offer wood, flooring, windows, cabinets, doors, hardware, and appliances that are in good condition for inexpensive prices.
3) Become familiar with the the EPA’s ReUse People website. This nonprofit group helps businesses to reduce their solid waste by salvaging building materials and making them available to low-income businesses and families in Mexico.
4) Review the United States Army Corps of Engineer’s document, “Selection of Methods for the Reduction, Reuse, and Recycling of Demolition Waste.” to become familiar with the best practices for reducing and disposing of construction and demolition waste.
5) Consider donating your unwanted or left-over construction materials to an organization such as Habitat for Humanity that can use them in building homes for low-income families.
6) For home remodeling projects, look through the “Field Guide for Residential Remodelers” pamphlet offered by the National Association of Home Builders. They provide cost-effective solutions for managing common remodeling waste.
7) For older homes, be sure to read the EPA’s resources on abating lead-paint hazards to ensure that you are staying with the law in terms of removal and disposal of this toxic substance.
WasteCare Wants You to Remember: Rules, regulations, and environmental best-practices are always changing, so it worth your time to stay informed. Not only will your customers see you as “green friendly” and looking out for their best-interest, but it can also keep you out of trouble and avoid costly fines from breaking the law!