Resource and Waste Management

TRL delivers guidance and assessment tools to assist our clients in strategy and policy decision-making. We have conducted Sustainability Appraisals of minerals and waste plans for Local Authorities and guide clients in the development of effective material resource strategies. Such strategies provide an integrated approach to maximising sustainable material use whilst minimising the associated environmental impacts. We can research and identify opportunities for improving resource use through waste recycling and re-use of secondary materials and recommend appropriate action plans.  We also provide independent monitoring and assessment of the performance of waste strategies.

TRL applies the principles of resource flows and mass balance to quantify existing or future use of resources and waste / emissions production. We have undertaken desktop studies and modelling to estimate the waste arisings and the resources within a defined a geographical area, as well as waste audits to understand the composition of the arisings. This enables us to suggest the most sustainable and cost-effective waste management solutions and informs the development and monitoring of resource strategies.

We are leading the way in knowledge transfer and dissemination to help clients overcome the barriers to material resource efficiency and to advise on compliance with waste regulation. For the Department for Trade and Industry and Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) and we have conducted a series of roadshows throughout the UK to disseminate knowledge and best practice in the construction industry on topics such as waste minimisation, alternative materials and recycling in construction, specifications and quality control.  We also offer bespoke specific training in the development and implementation of site waste management plans for organisations and project teams.

Our key capabilities in this area include:

• Strategy and policy
• Training in waste minimisation / management and site waste management plans
• Development of Material Resource Strategies
• Waste audits / surveys
• Guidance and advice
• Development of quality protocols and specifications
• Market development
• Tools and Key Performance Indicators
• Life-cycle assessments (LCA) and carbon footprinting
• Dissemination of good practice
• Education and knowledge transfer

Further information on our expertise on the application of recycled and secondary materials within the construction industry is located in the Sustainable Materials section of our website.