40% of waste generated in Romania comes from construction

Alina Oprea
Romania produces on average over 3 million tons of construction waste annually. This amount represents approximately 40% of the total waste generated annually in our country, according to an analysis by Masterbuild Property Developer & General Contractor, a construction and logistics and industrial development company. At this moment, the obligations regarding waste management provide for the achievement of a minimum percentage of 70% recovery and recycling of construction and demolition waste. At the level of the European Union, more than a third (37.5%) of all generated waste is waste from construction, demolition, and infrastructure maintenance.

"That's why well-organized and efficient construction sites in terms of implementing environmental standards are essential for Romania's current stage of development, considering the imminent obligation to implement and report on sustainability standards," the company says.

Construction waste, which could be capitalized in infrastructure projects by reusing or recycling it, most of the time ends up in the landfill and is not exploited to its maximum capacity, thus wasting a high potential for improving the efficiency of costs, say the company's specialists.

"The mode of operation and the lack of specific procedures in the local construction industry has determined a significant slowdown in the maturation process of this market, generating far-reaching consequences in terms of the impact of construction on the environment. At a systemic level, information actions are needed so that the entire chain of construction suppliers and subcontractors implement social and environmental responsibility standards on Romania's construction sites. The imposition of clear rules in the work processes, the integration of environmentally friendly materials and technologies, as well as the approach of construction sites as living, developing communities that must not create discomfort for the communities - all these are mandatory elements for a country that wants to access funds PNRR and enter the next stage of development," says Sorin Gheorghe, Project Manager within Masterbuild.

How to reduce the urban discomfort of construction sites:

  • Demarcation of spaces and controlled access, to continuously ensure a safe route for all those involved in the construction development. According to a study by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, implementing a clear demarcation of workspaces and access routes can reduce the risk of accidents and incidents on the job site by up to 80%. This includes the use of appropriate barriers, warning signs, and safety markings.
  • Organization and storage of materials: Good organization and storage of construction materials not only facilitates quick access to them but also reduces the risk of accidents. A study by the Construction Safety Council found that approximately 40% of construction site accidents are caused by damage or misuse of stored materials. Building materials must be stored in designated and properly labeled areas.
  • Equipment and machinery: According to statistical data, the use of improper or defective equipment and machinery is one of the main factors contributing to accidents on the construction site. Equipment and machinery must be checked regularly and kept in good working order. All workers must also be properly trained in the use and maintenance of the equipment.
  • Waste and hazardous substance management. Romania produces, on average, more than 3 million tons of construction waste per year, amounting to almost 40% of the total waste generated annually in our country. The implementation of an effective waste management system is more than indispensable for ensuring a working environment according to environmental regulations and standards. Also, hazardous substances must be handled and stored properly, according to environmental regulations and standards.
  • Communication and coordination. Clear communication and effective coordination between everyone involved in the construction project is essential to avoid errors and delays. Communication deficiencies are one of the main causes of additional costs and delays on construction sites.
  • Monitoring and supervision: Monitoring and supervision of construction activities is essential to identify and correct any problems or non-conformities.
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