SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS

Asset Classes

Focus Area

Custodial and Waste

Topic

Waste Management

Question #

P5.2b – Waste Management Strategies

Question

Is a program in place at the building for recycling, waste avoidance, reuse or donation of the following waste streams?

Applicability

Applicable to Light Industrial and Open-Air Retail buildings

Answer

Select all that apply:

  • Ballasts, fluorescent tubes, CFL and lamps containing mercury
  • Organic food material for composting
  • Grease/cooking oil
  • Other waste material
  • None

Description

In addition to the typical list of designated materials for source separation that most regions accept to be recycled (paper, containers, cardboard) or composting (food waste), many organizations expand their collection programs to include other reusable/recyclable materials (where a demonstrated end-market exists).

Programs that reduce waste and recycling generation and reuse products instead of putting them into the waste stream is an important piece of a waste reduction strategy. A transition to a circular economy must go beyond recycling, and also promote the reuse of existing materials, or the elimination of their production in the first place. Making a new product emits greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change and requires a lot of materials and energy – raw materials must be extracted from the earth, and the product must be fabricated then transported to wherever it will be sold. As a result, reduction and reuse are the most effective ways you can save natural resources, protect the environment and save money.” (Source: https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-and-reusing-basics)

Requirements

  1. Indicate all reduction, reuse and donation programs implemented at the building

  2. Collect Documentation to demonstrate these initiatives are in place, such as 

      • Donation program partnerships

      • Confirmed pick-ups from charities or organizations

      • Launch of reduction/avoidance campaigns

Documentation

  • Emails, memo, service agreements, photos or any other evidence which demonstrate requirements are met

Adapted BB3 Question

Question 08.03.02 – Has the recycling program been expanded to include any of the following waste materials?

Suggested Lead

In-house

References

None

Crosswalk

TBD

Other Notes

None

Scoring

1 Point per option, up to 4 Max Points

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