What Happens to Building Rubble When if Not Recycled?
People should become more aware of the impact our waste is having on the planet. When a structure is demolished, the building rubble has to go somewhere, and often this means overloading landfill sites with products that do not break down.
Worldwide over 7 billion tonnes of aggregates from the earth each year for the purpose of concrete production is extracted. This practise drains the earth’s resources, and when raw minerals are extracted it contributes to water and air pollution.
When rubble is recycled it can have a positive effect on our natural resources. Unfortunately, 75% of clean waste from construction sites such as concrete, timber and bricks are sent directly to the landfill.
Traditional transporting of clean rubble to landfill sites is expensive and not only does improper management of these products present a danger to the environment, but there is a risk to public health. Landfills can contaminate the soil and water; attract pests and rodents while emitting a foul odour. Having landfill sites situated near your property can decrease the value of the land, and potentially cause health problems for residents.
Not All Can Be Recycled
Not all building materials can be recycled, and contaminated or hazardous waste products need to be disposed of correctly. This includes items such as asbestos, electronics, and medical waste. Transporting hazardous waste requires a specialised vehicle and transport certificate. Illegal dumping of industrial waste in natural drainage, water or land areas that have not been legally designated as waste depots can result in prosecution and fines.
Recycled rubble from materials such as masonry, concrete, rock, tiles, stones and terrazzo can all be reused in foundations, road bases, general bulk fill, footpaths, driveways, bank protection, and embankment protection. Using recycled building materials is a cost effective solution and will make you feel good that you are helping the environment.
Not only can you recycle during the demolition process, but also you can buy, swap and sell any items of value prior to this stage. While not all building rubble can be recycled, there is a significant amount, which being thrown away, which could actually have a second life as something new. Recycled products such as sand, remanufactured aggregates and road base are of high quality so you will not be disappointed when choosing this option.
(Source: www.capitalrecycling.com.au/happens-building-rubble-recycled/)
Landfill Sites in the City
The City of Ekurhuleni has a number of landfill sites that can be used to dispose of waste, as well as used for recycling.
- Platkop is located on the N3, approximately 15km south of Alberton on the Nigel/Lenasia (R550) offramp from the N3.
- Rietfontein waste disposal site is in Springs, on Tonk Meter Way.
- Rooikraal is in Vosloorus at the T-junction of Rondebult and Barry Marais roads.
- Simmer & Jack classified as a GLB-site.
- Weltevreden landfill site is situated next to Main Reef Road (Route M45) on the border between the Benoni and Brakpan. Access to and from the site is from Main Reef Road.
Cost of disposing of building rubble:
- For the general public there is no cost involved to dispose of up to 1 000kg (1 ton) – limited to once a week.
- Disposal of non-hazardous industrial dry waste by the general public in excess of 1 000kg will be charged per kg at R300.92 (excl VAT).
A Skip can also be ordered from the waste depot in the area in which it is needed.
Application must be completed at the relevant depot and you will need a copy of your services account so the City can levy the charge of the bulk container on the utilities account. The cost of a 6m3 bulk container is R1 221.15 (excl. VAT) per lift (for every time the bin is emptied).
** The latest tariffs for the 2020/21 financial year are available on the website – www.ekurhuleni.gov.za.
When visiting a site:
- Please enter only at authorised access points;
- Provide site officials with information on what you want to dump;
- Follow instructions and directions on where to dump at the site.
Site are open seven days a week, except on Christmas day, from 7am – 6pm (April – September) and 7am – 7pm (October – March).
