LONDON, July 9 /PRNewswire/ --     Each year the construction industry generates 109 million
tonnes of waste, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural
Affairs (Defra).

In response to a recent consultation on compulsory Site Waste
Management Plans (SWMP), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has
called for all construction projects, involving more than 30 days or 500
person days of construction, to plan and implement a SWMP. This would create
a level playing field within the industry, encourage more efficient use of
materials and reduce waste crime. The proposed threshold also provides
consistency with notified projects under the new Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations thereby minimising additional red tape.

The CIOB has also called for the government to consider
incentive based schemes that encourage the industry to reduce waste; along
with inspection and enforcement tied in with existing regulatory checks.

Michael Brown CIOB deputy chief executive commented, "As an
industry we can't just rely on construction companies with an ethical
approach to the environment to take up the slack for those that show little
concern for the use and misuse of our resources. We need a change of
behaviour that requires everyone to reduce waste. Without the appropriate
regulation and teeth we fear that SWMPs will only be used by larger operators
who have an interest in environmental issues.

"We would like to see a greater emphasis from government on
the use of sustainable materials, equipment and techniques. All construction
projects should be designed and built to be environmentally efficient with a
measurable reduction, and recycling, of construction waste.

"If SWMPs are made mandatory they may result in some
additional cost, but given a level playing field this should not affect the
competitiveness of the company. There will be opportunities for cost savings
in terms of recycling and reuse that would help offset any costs incurred."

The CIOB has submitted that principal contractors should be
responsible for preparing and implementing a SWMP; recognising that they can
delegate this responsibility if appropriate. Principal contractors must also
be involved early in the design phase and in the procurement of materials.

Notes to Editors

Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 requires
most construction work to be notified to the Health and Safety Executive
(HSE). A project is notifiable if the construction phase is likely to involve
more than -

(a) 30 days or (b) 500 person days - of construction work

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) represents on behalf of the
public the most diverse set of professionals in the construction industry.

The CIOB's role is to:

- Promote the importance of the built environment in our lives.

- Lead the industry to create a sustainable future worldwide.

- Encourage leadership potential.

- Set the highest standards in quality, safety and qualification.

- Create an industry where excellence prospers.