ER109 Plastic waste in construction Report 2 - Barriers to waste management (2025)

A range of factors affect the success of waste management, including on-site separation and recyclability of construction plastic waste. These on-site and off-site factors (logistical and cultural) were explored through conversations with construction professionals and waste providers, along with personal observations. Improved education around the reasons and opportunities to reduce plastic waste disposal can help construction companies improve their environmental performance. The nomination of a dedicated waste manager or person responsible for overseeing waste separation is critical to recycling success. Other factors such as local reuse/recycling solutions and transportation logistics are also highly influential. End-of-life options for Auckland-based construction sites are also discussed in this report.

Overall, our research found that, while on-site separation of plastic waste may meet some initial resistance from the construction industry, most people participating in the study sites were enthusiastic and showed great improvement over time. Staff did not find it particularly difficult, and with time and experience, the accuracy of plastic waste sorting improved. Plastic waste separation is a worthwhile waste management practice on Auckland sites, as recycling is readily available for the main plastic types.