Construction: The Race for Recycling Accelerates
Initially skeptical, contractors in the sector have embraced material recovery. In 2026, they are shifting into high gear. Reusing materials from demolished buildings to construct new ones. Nothing new there! Those who appreciate old buildings know that this common sense of the builder was already practiced in the days of fortified castles. The notable difference […]
Initially skeptical, contractors in the sector have embraced material recovery. In 2026, they are shifting into high gear. Reusing materials from demolished buildings to construct new ones. Nothing new there! Those who appreciate old buildings know that this common sense of the builder was already practiced in the days of fortified castles. The notable difference is that today’s concrete blocks, welded wire mesh, and formwork timbers are not as easily reused as the dressed stones and oak beams of yesteryear. Nevertheless, construction companies are not neglecting the benefits of recycling. And for good reason. This sector generates approximately 246 million tons of waste per year, which is 57 million tons more than household waste. Mentalities have changed considerably, observe experts of recycling eco-organizations. Ten years ago, people said recycling was both complicated and an economic absurdity. Today, they see that waste is becoming strategic. The majority of construction sites have converted to recovery, and the sector has embraced a virtuous approach. According to the waste management pros, three-quarters of building materials are already being recovered. At the top of the list are metals, widely recovered for their high value. Wood waste is also finely shredded to become particleboard. What is unrecoverable is sent to an energy recovery stream. As for concrete, it is often crushed and reused by public works projects to create road embankments. A quarter of the materials are not recycled and end up in landfills. That amounts to 70 million tons. It’s enormous, and we must intensify our efforts to move towards 100% recycled content. Towards new materials With this objective in mind, the government, under the anti-waste for a circular economy law, has mandated the implementation of an extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme. Based on the polluter-pays principle, the manufacturer, or the first seller of a construction material on the market, must bear the cost of its recovery and recycling. To this end, since May, they have been paying an eco-contribution to one of the four approved recovery and recycling organizations, which are now responsible for better organizing the sector. In reality, the manufacturer will pass on the eco-contribution to the sale of the material, and the construction companies that purchase it will partially incorporate it into the final bill for the work, according to the Building Federation. For now, the amount is relatively low. However, we are convinced that it will increase significantly from 2024 onwards, they predict. For their part, the eco-organizations for recovery and recycling have their work cut out for them. They will have to ensure that the country has a sufficient network of collection points so that construction companies are guaranteed to find one within 10 kilometers in urban areas and within 20 kilometers in rural areas. They will also be responsible for collecting illegally dumped waste. Finally, they will have to ensure that the conditions for accepting waste are the same everywhere. #That’s not the case today. Construction companies are waiting to find out if they will be required to refine their waste sorting procedures, or risk having their waste rejected by recycling centers. Despite these uncertainties, everyone agrees that these measures are a good thing. Finally, some eco-organizations assure that they will intensify research and development on recycling multi-component materials, which are more complex to recycle than others, and encourage manufacturers to shift towards using single-component materials. The era of cut stone and oak beams, however, remains a distant memory. This century marks the end of architectural anachronisms. Due to regulations, the reuse of a material, in its original state, represents less than 1% of total recovery.
The Hidden Treasures of Waste: How Recycling Creates Value
In our modern societies, we produce enormous quantities of waste. Many people view this waste as an environmental problem, which is absolutely true. However, we could also see it as a valuable opportunity. Waste as a Resource: An Innovative Approach The myth that all waste is simply detritus that must be disposed of must be […]
In our modern societies, we produce enormous quantities of waste. Many people view this waste as an environmental problem, which is absolutely true. However, we could also see it as a valuable opportunity. Waste as a Resource: An Innovative Approach The myth that all waste is simply detritus that must be disposed of must be dispelled. We are facing a completely new situation. Waste is increasingly perceived as a valuable resource that can be exploited. It represents a second-hand economy. From plastic packaging to old electronics, from worn-out clothing to antique furniture, almost any waste can be recycled into new products or materials. It’s an approach that has the potential to radically change the perception, and more importantly, the impact, of waste. From Waste to Value Creation: Inspiring Examples of Recycled Products Take the example of Dell, the technology company. They created a program called “Dell Reconnect” that recycles old and unused computers into new products. Not only does this reduce the need to extract limited minerals for the production of new products, but it also creates jobs and saves energy. But innovation in waste management isn’t limited to large corporations. Many startups are demonstrating astonishing innovation. For example, Got Bag, a German company that makes backpacks from recycled plastic recovered from the ocean. Circular Economy: Transforming Our Trash into Treasure We must view our waste as a valuable resource and no longer as a burden on our environment. The circular economy is one way we can achieve this goal. It means “reuse, repair, remake” instead of “take, make, throw.” Regenerating our resources and creating return systems so that end-of-life products are reintroduced into the production system can transform waste management into a profitable sector. Notably, the European Commission has estimated that the transition to a circular economy could create 700,000 jobs in Europe by 2030. In short, we have a real treasure hidden in our waste. It is therefore essential that we change our mindset and start viewing our waste as a valuable resource that can add value to our economy. This will not only help us solve our environmental problems, but also stimulate economic growth and create jobs. Smart Urban Waste Management: A Key to the City of Tomorrow In today’s ever-changing world, urban waste management has become a major challenge for the cities of the future. Population growth and urbanization have led to increased waste production, requiring a smart and sustainable approach to waste management. To preserve the environment and improve citizens’ quality of life, smart waste management is essential. This involves investing in innovative community technologies to facilitate waste recycling by residents. The Challenges of Urban Waste Management Urban waste management faces numerous challenges, including the growing amount of waste produced, environmental pollution, and economic constraints. To address these challenges, a holistic and integrated approach is required, combining waste collection, treatment, and recovery. Efficient Waste Collection In a smart city, just like mobility issues, improved waste collection management has a direct beneficial impact on the ecological and environmental aspects of the area, as well as on the well-being of residents. The use of a smart system, such as connected trucks and dumpster rentals, makes it possible to optimize collection transportation methods and collect accurate data in real time, particularly on routes and bin fill levels. This smart system integrates connected sensors that measure waste fill volume. Analysis of the transmitted data makes it possible to adapt collection routes and vehicle transit times according to the population’s needs. This provides a more accurate assessment of the data. By integrating these smart technologies, a more efficient and sustainable waste management system is implemented, reducing unnecessary journeys and optimizing resource use. This helps improve residents’ quality of life by reducing environmental pollution while promoting more efficient vehicle use.
Construction Waste: Rules to Follow, Responsibilities, Innovative Approaches
What is Construction Waste Construction waste, often overlooked in discussions about environmental management, nevertheless represents a major issue in the Construction and Public Works sector. Waste transportation and final treatment are additional challenges for many companies. Did you know? The construction sector generates no less than 346 million tons of waste per year. It is […]
What is Construction Waste Construction waste, often overlooked in discussions about environmental management, nevertheless represents a major issue in the Construction and Public Works sector. Waste transportation and final treatment are additional challenges for many companies. Did you know? The construction sector generates no less than 346 million tons of waste per year. It is estimated that 85% comes from deconstruction and rehabilitation work. Construction transport Definition, role, responsibility: everything you need to know about transportation in the construction industry! What are the different categories of waste on a construction site First of all, this waste is defined as any residue produced by construction, renovation, or demolition activities. There are several categories. Inert materials such as: concrete, soil and stones (which constitutes the majority), bricks, tiles and ceramics and glass. This type of waste represents approximately 70% of all construction waste. If we look at their storage costs, the cost is between $15 and $30 per ton, excluding transportation and dumpster rental. In a second category, we find non-hazardous but non-inert waste: wood, plastic, metals. This represents 28% of construction waste. Its storage costs are higher than those for inert waste, at between $80 and $120 per ton. And finally, the third category, and not the least, is hazardous waste, including: asbestos, polluted excavated soil, solvent-based paints and specific varnishes or glues. This is the rarest type of construction waste, representing 1.5% of all construction waste. However, it is the most expensive to process, costing between $200 and $1,200 per ton. What are the impacts of construction waste The environmental impact It is considerable! Not only does construction waste occupy a significant volume in landfills (sometimes brought by dumpster rentals), but its inadequate treatment can also lead to soil and groundwater contamination. The lack of effective sorting and recycling leads to a waste of valuable resources, thus exacerbating the sector’s ecological footprint. This is why federal regulations were implemented in 2021. Federal Regulations EPR stands for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for building construction products and materials. It is a waste management system that requires entities that market building products, thus generating waste, to process and recover them. This requires waste-producing companies to assume financial responsibility for their disposal. Economic Impact Economically, inefficient construction waste management generates additional costs for construction companies, particularly in terms of disposal costs and potential penalties for non-compliance with environmental regulations. This is all the more unfortunate when you consider that optimized management can turn into an economic opportunity, thanks to the recovery of recyclable materials and innovation in treatment and reuse methods. Regulations in force for construction site waste Construction site waste management is governed by a set of strict regulations, constantly updated to address environmental and sustainable development issues. These regulations, both federal and local, impose precise standards concerning the collection, sorting, transportation, treatment, and recovery of waste from construction sites. Laws governing construction site waste Current legislation goes beyond simply banning environmentally harmful waste management methods, such as landfilling or incineration on construction sites. It now aims to achieve more ambitious targets for recycling and reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills. This is part of the National Low-Carbon Strategy and the American economy’s transition to more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. In 2021, the Government strengthened its commitment in this area with the adoption of new laws (anti-waste law for a circular economy), introducing new requirements for waste management and dumpster rentals.
Renting a Dumpster for a Home Renovation: A Comprehensive Guide
Home renovations can be an exciting opportunity to update your living space, but they also create a lot of waste. As old flooring, drywall, fixtures, and other debris quickly pile up, you’ll want a plan for disposal that works. One of the smartest and most efficient ways to take care of this waste is by […]
Home renovations can be an exciting opportunity to update your living space, but they also create a lot of waste. As old flooring, drywall, fixtures, and other debris quickly pile up, you’ll want a plan for disposal that works. One of the smartest and most efficient ways to take care of this waste is by renting a dumpster for your home remodel in Wisconsin in cities like Madison or Milwaukee. So let’s discuss the reasons you may need a dumpster, how to choose the right one, associated costs and tips on making the most of a dumpster. Why You Should Rent a Dumpster for a Home Renovation Minor or major, renovations create a lot of waste that regular trash service can’t accommodate. According to waste disposal specialists Madison Dumpster Rental Boss, here’s why a dumpster rental is a smart move: Convenience: Having a dumpster means that you have 100% of your renovation debris in one, central location, ensuring that your worksite remains clean and organized Time Efficiency: By eliminating the need for multiple landfill or recycling center trips, you can dispose of waste in one place, saving valuable time Safety: Containing debris lowers the chance to have tripping hazards and injuries while working on the project Proper Disposal: A professional dumpster rental company knows how to dispose of materials, including recycling and specialty processing of materials How to Select the Right Size Dumpster Dumpsters come in various sizes, which are most commonly measured in cubic yards. Choosing the proper size depends on the scale of your renovation project: 10-Yard Dumpster: Great for small-scale projects like a bathroom or closet remodel. About 50–70 trash bags or 3–5 pickup truck loads fit in it 20-Yard Dumpster: Ideal for medium-sized projects like kitchen remodels, basement cleanouts, or flooring removal. It can possess around 110–130 drums of trash bags 30-Yard Dumpster: This dumpster is suitable for bigger projects such as whole-home renovations, roof replacements or room additions 40-Yard Dumpster: Ideal for large-scale remodels like demolition or renovation of several rooms where a lot of debris is generated If you’re uncertain, check with the dumpster rental company for the best size based on your renovation plans. What to Know About Dumpster Rental Fees Local regulations can also affect the cost of renting a dumpster, so it is essential to research the dumpster prices in your area. Here are some common cost considerations, and their breakdown: Base Rate: How big the dumpster is and how long you want it for. For a home renovation, a 10- or 20-yard dumpster will cost you about $300 to $600 Weight Limit: Dumpsters have weight limits, and if you go over this, you can be charged extra. Concrete or tiles added as construction debris can weigh a lot States: Prices vary based on regional differences in market demand and disposal fees. Urban residents may be more affected than people in rural areas Type of Debris: Additional fees may apply to certain items including electronics, hazardous waste, or mattresses To avoid unpleasant surprises, ask for an itemized estimate from the rental company that also lists delivery, pickup and disposal charges. Preparing for Your Dumpster Delivery Here are the steps to take before your dumpster arrives to ensure everything goes smoothly: Get Permits: If you plan to set the dumpster out on public property, such as a street, check with your local government for any permit requirements Clear the Area: Make sure there’s easy access at the driveway, or an alternate area for delivery of the dumpster and the delivery truck Placement of Plans: Pick a spot away from buildings, low-hanging trees or utility lines but near the renovation site Inform neighbors if the project may disrupt them, especially with dumpster placement in shared face. How to Maximize the Use of the Dumpster Once the dumpster is on-site, here are some tips to make the most of it: Sort Materials: Separate recyclables such as metal, wood, and cardboard to minimize waste and disposal expenses Do Not Overfill: Fill the dumpster to the rim, any dumpster filled above its rim will not be picked up due to safety concerns Items that are not allowed: Do not throw out restricted items such as hazardous materials, electronics or tires. Check with the rental company for a list of prohibited materials Compact Waste: You may need to cut large items like cabinets or furniture to fit in the dumpster Dumpster Rental Alternatives For smaller renovations, a dumpster may not even be needed. Alternatives include: Bagged Trash Services: Heavy-duty bags can be used for small loads of debris Curbside pickup: Contact your local trash service to see if they will pick up bulk waste, such as furniture or appliances Recycling Centers: Take materials such as metal, wood, and concrete to recycling plants to help keep them out of landfills Junk Disposal and Environmental Considerations Home renovations can be wasteful, but you can minimize the environmental impact with these practices: Donate Undamaged Items: Semi-functioning renters or soaked cabinets, fixtures or appliances can be donated to groups like Habitat for Humanity Recycle Materials: A lot of dumpster rental companies are taking the time to sift through the debris in order to recycle items like metal, wood and concrete Reuse: Keep things like wood or tiles for DIY projects or home décor Renting a dumpster for a home renovation is an essential aspect of waste management while doing the project in Wisconsin or elsewhere in the USA. It makes cleanup easy, maintains a safe worksite, and handles disposal of debris. Picking the correct size, knowing the prices, and knowing best practices allows you to focus on overhauling your space without stressing over garbage. From tiny remodel to full-scale renovations, a dumpster rental helps keep your project organized and running smoothly, making your renovation process work more efficiently and with less stress.
Dumpster Rentals for Construction Projects in Virginia: An Essential Tool for Efficient Waste Management
Residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects produce large quantities of waste. Dealing with such waste is a critical part of the construction or renovation project not only to meet environmental laws but also to keep the workspace safe and tidy. Much like other states, dumpster rentals are a primary consideration in many of Virginia’s construction […]
Residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects produce large quantities of waste. Dealing with such waste is a critical part of the construction or renovation project not only to meet environmental laws but also to keep the workspace safe and tidy. Much like other states, dumpster rentals are a primary consideration in many of Virginia’s construction waste management strategies. Dumpster rentals help simplify debris disposal, enhance efficiency and promote environmentally responsible disposal practices. So let’s have a look at the positive aspects and considerations for dumpster rentals in construction projects in Virginia, as well as different types of these resources. When It Comes To Construction Projects, What Is The Role Of Dumpster Rentals A construction project usually creates varied types of waste materials for disposal, such as wood, concrete, metals, drywall, insulation and packaging material. If there is no proper waste management system employed, such materials may stack up on-site causing clutter as well as inefficiency and safety hazards. Where dumpster rentals come in. A dumpster gives you one place to put all your waste and debris, which helps keep your workspace organized and clean. Like elsewhere, dumpster rental companies in Virginia have dumpsters of different sizes available for each project. Dumpsters are convenient and economical ways to dispose of trash from little house restorations to major industrial developments. Contractors do not need to create multiple trips to nearby landfills or waste disposal centers; they simply throw materials in a dumpster that is then picked up once full. This not only saves time and money but also helps keep the project on track. Benefits of Using Dumpster Rentals on Job Sites Affordable and Efficient Dumpster rentals are generally less expensive than hiring a team to cart away construction debris by hand. When you rent a dumpster, you minimize the number of trips to a landfill where waste must be taken, which could cost time and money and keep them from showing up. The rental company will take care of the transportation and disposal for them, which means that the project manager or contractor no longer has to worry about it. Safety and the Organization A disorganized worksite is a recipe for disaster. With a dumpster, any construction rubbish can be cleared up from the location immediately, thus removing dangers of accidents happening as people trip or fall over rubbish. When the workplace is in order, workers can navigate their surroundings and finish their work quickly. Environmental Responsibility Virginia is known for its strong environmental regulations, even going as far as having strict policy regarding waste disposal. Instead, with construction activity happening at so many different places, dumpsters provide a responsible way of disposing waste materials as per the appropriate state and local guidelines surrounding sorting and disposal. Numerous rental firms based in Virginia also work collaboratively with many recycling centers as well and this assists contractors and builders to lessen the number of materials that ends up in landfills, they can be used for metals, wood as well as concrete. Follow Local Rules Each municipality in Virginia like Norfolk or Virginia Beach may have its own rules/regulations about construction waste disposal including what cannot go to the landfill, where and how you should recycle. These local rules are familiar to dumpster rental companies when they operate in an area, and can assist their clients with what is considered proper disposal. It keeps the construction company in-check with regards to environmental regulations and reduces any change of being fined. The convenience Dumpster rental services often take care of delivery, pickup and disposal for you, saving the hassle that comes with going to a landfill yourself. Rental services also provide flexible scheduling and support for projects requiring multiple use dumpsters or for ongoing waste disposal throughout the duration of a project. There Are Different Kinds of Dumpsters to Use for Construction With services that cover disposal requirements in Virginia, dumpster rental companies have various sizes of dumpsters which allow a contractor to choose the sizes that best fit their needs. Some dumpster sizes which are often used for the construction projects are: 10-yard dumpsters For smaller renovation, clean-out or minor construction. With room for around 10 cubic yards of waste, these dumpsters are ideal for smaller jobs that generate a low amount of material. 20-yard dumpsters This is a good all-purpose size for medium-sized projects, like roofing, basement renovations or larger remodeling jobs in the home. They can carry about 20 cubic yards of debris, so nearly any kind of construction debris. 30-yard dumpster This is for larger home constructions or bigger commercial projects. Suitable for construction projects that generate a lot of waste materials, these containers can accommodate approximately 30 cubic yards of debris. 40-yard dumpsters The biggest size, usually for large commercial or industrial projects, or new builds. Designed to hold up to 40 cubic yards of waste, these dumpsters provide an easy way to dispose of debris after heavy and complete demolition, large-scale commercial renovations, or construction developments. How To Choose A Dumpster For Your Construction Project in Virginia The right dumpster size is very important that it will help you with the waste precisely. Contractors should consider their project size, disposal type and onsite space. A dumpster that’s too small can overflow and prompt additional charges, while a dumpster that’s too large can take up valuable real estate and cost more to rent. Virginia contractors should also pay attention to local government regulations related to the siting of a dumpster and waste collection. For instance, certain municipalities may need a permit for you put a dumpster on the road public or sidewalk while others limit the size or excess weight of dumpsters that can be utilized in domestic regions. However, make sure to check with the rental company about these limitations. Environmental Issues And Recycling Other than that, dumpster rental companies in Virginia are also popular due to their commitment towards sustainability. Over time, most of the materials used in construction are recyclable like metals, wood and even concrete by reducing the amount of waste generated by landfills. To allow the contractor to separate recyclable materials from landfill bound waste, some dumpster rental services in Virginia provide individual bins for recycling. Many rental companies within the state also work with recycling centers to recycle construction debris in an environmentally friendly way. When it comes to waste management in construction projects, dumpster rentals are an integral part of the solution in Virginia. They provide a variety of advantages including enhanced safety and efficiency as well as compliance with local and state laws. And with the right dumpster size and a dependable rental company, contractors will eliminate construction debris in an eco-friendly manner while staying on time. Whether you are completing a small home renovation or working on a large commercial project, renting dumpsters allows you to maintain your job site clean and organized while saving money.
Waste Pre-Collection Explained: A Guide to Smarter Waste Management
What is waste pre-collection Waste pre-collection is a major topic for all municipalities in Ohio such as Cleveland, but remains little known to the general public. Although essential to meet the expectations of residents, managing waste pre-collection is not easy, as it requires different equipment. At Cleveland Dumpster Rental Team, they do everything they can […]
What is waste pre-collection Waste pre-collection is a major topic for all municipalities in Ohio such as Cleveland, but remains little known to the general public. Although essential to meet the expectations of residents, managing waste pre-collection is not easy, as it requires different equipment. At Cleveland Dumpster Rental Team, they do everything they can to meet the needs of communities in terms of pre-collection of household waste, but also selective sorting bins for recycling. What is waste pre-collection What is called “waste pre-collection” corresponds to all the processes and equipment put in place to allow the collection of household waste, but also that resulting from sorting. We speak of pre-collection to specify that this process comes before traditional waste collection. This essential step therefore corresponds to the strategic choice of the locations of the collection equipment as well as the installation of wheeled bins and other elements such as container shelters. The pre-collection of waste is specific to household waste, we do not take into account here concrete bins and other concrete trash cans, which are defined as street furniture. Why do the pre-collection of waste The pre-collection of waste is a crucial step to facilitate the future collection of household waste, operated by the community or by a private company. The installation of equipment such as wheeled bins or container shelters will make it possible to centralize waste at a single collection point. In this way, the collection of garbage will be greatly facilitated by avoiding numerous detours and wasted time. The pre-collection of waste is also designed for the management of sorting bins in Cleveland. That is to say that container kiosks or container parks can house both classic wheeled bins and specific sorting bins. Generally speaking, the main advantages of pre-collection of waste are therefore to facilitate the centralization of household waste for users, but also to facilitate collection for the municipality or the subcontracting company. Specific equipment dedicated to this waste management stage There are different pieces of equipment that allow household waste to be centralized in the same place. The wheeled bin Certainly the best known, the wheeled bin corresponds to the classic trash can that you can find in any municipality. Equipped with a lid to limit the spread of bad odors and protect the trash cans from bad weather, this equipment is used by all town halls. Wheeled bins are specific to collection by garbage truck and can be grouped in container shelters. Sorting containers Aerial (for collection by crane truck) or classic, sorting containers or bins are dedicated to sorting and recycling waste. These containers are designed to collect only one type of waste depending on their color. Some are specific to cardboard and plastics, others to glass. They are easily recognizable by their color (green and yellow in most cases). They can be positioned outside in locations chosen by the town hall or inside container shelters. Container shelter Container shelters do not collect waste like the above equipment does. The latter is a building designed to protect pre-collection bins and containers. Made of concrete, container shelters allow the grouping of pre-collection equipment in a single strategic point as well as the protection of the latter against bad weather and attempts at vandalism by users. They are perfectly designed for sorting and recycling because they are equipped with waste traps that can be adapted to the collected flows. This container shelter is designed to protect the sorting containers and public wheeled bins of each town hall. Made of concrete, the container shelter contains traps and doors that can be locked with a key to limit management to collection organizations only. It has waste traps located on its upper part and a large signage space for sorting instructions. Designed for outdoors, this modular container shelter is weatherproof. Container kiosk The container kiosk is one of the shelters that allow several wheeled bins or sorting containers to be grouped together in a single, secure location. Indeed, it is a real building on a concrete slab with a roof that allows up to 16 containers to be centralized in a single shelter. The latter can be composed of a service aisle or islands depending on the containers present, and can include sanitation units. The dumpster park is an alternative to container shelters. Indeed, they also allow the storage and centralization of several wheeled bins, protected by a roof. However, this container park is not closed and does not have hatches dedicated to sorting containers. This container shelter is the ideal solution for large complexes.
The challenges of rehabilitating industrial wasteland
Industrial wastelands are a source of opportunities for communities. Their reconversion promises modern and attractive sites capable of instilling new local dynamics. We take stock of the challenges that such projects represent and the expected benefits for the territories concerned. What is an industrial wasteland How can industrial wastelands be defined? Are these sites different […]
Industrial wastelands are a source of opportunities for communities. Their reconversion promises modern and attractive sites capable of instilling new local dynamics. We take stock of the challenges that such projects represent and the expected benefits for the territories concerned. What is an industrial wasteland How can industrial wastelands be defined? Are these sites different from urban industrial wastelands? Let’s see what brings together and what differentiates different types of industrial wastelands. Definition of an industrial wasteland An industrial wasteland is a site where abandoned industrial facilities remain. It requires reconversion in order to be exploited again, according to its initial purpose or for any other use useful to the community. An industrial wasteland is defined in the broad sense as being a “built or unbuilt space, formerly used for industrial, commercial or other activities, abandoned for more than 2 years and of more than 2,000 m²”. What is the difference between industrial wasteland and urban wasteland? The terms industrial wasteland and urban wasteland are sometimes interchanged. They both correspond to the official definition, but they are not entirely comparable. The first is designated by the nature of the activities, while the second depends on a location on the territory. Urban wasteland is land, not necessarily initially intended for industrial use, left abandoned in an urban environment awaiting reuse. It could be a commercial wasteland or a demolished residential complex. What wastelands have in common All industrial, urban, commercial, logistics or agricultural wastelands have in common a transitory nature. These disused areas are an opportunity to develop new urban developments by mobilizing land that has already been built on. They can be rehabilitated and requalified to support the community’s new ambitions. What differentiates the types of industrial wastelands The nature of the activities carried out on the disused area profoundly changes the conditions of rehabilitation. On an industrial zone where substances or materials that are dangerous to health or the environment still exist, the operation will be more delicate than for a simple forgotten residential complex. How does an urban industrial wasteland appear An urban industrial wasteland is the result of the inadequacy of a site to the dynamics of its environment. Sometimes, the gap is there from the start. This is the case when a large real estate project comes to fruition, but it does not find buyers. Very often, it is local socio-economic, political or strategic developments that will have made the site obsolete. The fall of large industries from the 1970s (energy crisis, international competition, etc.) has thus contributed to the proliferation of industrial wastelands in the territories of Ohio. In the most affected cities such as Cleveland, these industrial wastelands are becoming a major urban issue. Their locations are often very prominent, at the entrance to cities or in the very heart of the urban space. In fact, the confrontation with the decline that they symbolize is constant. In return, these strategic positions strengthen the potential of rehabilitated and requalified urban industrial wastelands for the economic renewal and the renewed attractiveness of the city. Effects of the rehabilitation of an urban industrial wasteland for the community The rehabilitation of an urban industrial wasteland is an opportunity for the community to meet the needs for new construction without touching non-artificialized land, while revaluing a disused area. A lever for economic revitalization Instead of abandoned buildings, the industrial wasteland reclassified as a business park is an opportunity to create new jobs. The attractiveness of the site for businesses plays an important role here. The geographical position close to major roads is an asset, but we must go further by offering new quality infrastructure in a pleasant setting. A surface to be exploited without new artificialization of the soil The industrial wasteland is a surface that has already been artificialized in the past. Of course, its abandonment has allowed vegetation to regain its rights, offering a refuge to insects and animals. Rehabilitation can include the preservation of biodiversity niches in an urban environment for eco-responsible urbanization. In all cases, the revaluation of a disused site makes it possible to meet the land needs of local businesses without urban sprawl. Controlled environmental and health risks The decontamination of industrial wastelands and their surroundings during their reconversion contributes to maintaining a healthier environment for plant, animal and human life. These projects are an opportunity to establish a thorough diagnosis and correct all the disorders accumulated over the years, even decades of inactivity. At the end of the project, the community gains a sustainably cleaned site. Examples of challenges and successful reconversions Soils polluted by heavy metals, former landlocked industrial-port site… Each reconversion is a challenge for the city’s waste management and also the symbol of a renewal. Some municipalities in Ohio have suffered from soil pollution by lead due to the activities of local factories, such as a foundry producing tons of lead per year. After the group was liquidated in 2003, the industrial wasteland became one of the most polluted in the country. A land replacement system was quickly put in place. The operation consisted of removing the contaminated land and replacing it with healthy land. This urban wasteland has become an architectural playground. The area is marked by experimental projects for the development of a dynamic and mixed eco-district with residential and tertiary real estate and also cultural establishments. Specialists in the development of public spaces can support the communities of Ohio in the redevelopment of converted sites with ranges of sustainable street furniture compatible with all architectural styles.
Ecological sanitation system: advantages and implementation
Ecological sanitation represents an innovative approach to waste and wastewater management, aiming to minimize the impact on the environment while ensuring a better quality of life for communities. In this article, we walk through the benefits of the ecological sanitation system and the essential steps for its effective implementation. What you need to know about […]
Ecological sanitation represents an innovative approach to waste and wastewater management, aiming to minimize the impact on the environment while ensuring a better quality of life for communities. In this article, we walk through the benefits of the ecological sanitation system and the essential steps for its effective implementation. What you need to know about ecological sanitation Ecological sanitation stands out for its commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint. Unlike conventional methods, it takes a holistic approach, integrating innovative solutions to treat wastewater and manage waste in an eco-friendly manner. To benefit from an adequate service that respects these rules, contact a public works specialist. The advantages of ecological sanitation There are many advantages linked to ecological sanitation and we will discover them in the following lines: Preserving water quality The main advantage of ecological sanitation lies in the preservation of water quality. Traditional systems can release harmful substances into waterways, compromising the health of aquatic ecosystems and the safety of drinking water. On the other hand, ecological methods filter and treat wastewater naturally, thus preserving water quality. Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions Conventional sanitation facilities often produce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change. Eco-friendly systems, such as composting toilets, minimize these emissions by promoting the natural decomposition of organic matter, thereby reducing the carbon footprint. Resource valorization Ecological sanitation transforms waste into useful resources. Biodigesters, for example, convert organic waste into biogas and natural fertilizers, creating a virtuous circle where waste becomes valuable resources for agriculture and energy production. Preservation of biodiversity By minimizing the impact on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, ecological sanitation contributes to the preservation of biodiversity. Reducing chemicals in wastewater and promoting responsible use of resources helps maintain the delicate balance of nature. Implementation of the ecological sanitation system Do you want to set up an ecological sanitation system? You do not know how to do it ? Discover our tips for achieving this in the rest of this post. Community Outreach The success of an ecological sanitation system depends largely on community awareness. Educational programs and information campaigns are essential to explain the environmental and social benefits of this approach, thereby encouraging resident buy-in. Local needs assessment Each community has specific sanitation needs. A thorough assessment of local needs, available resources and environmental constraints is essential to design a system adapted to each context. This could include wastewater treatment systems, dry toilets or composting toilets. Adapted infrastructure The establishment of an ecological sanitation system requires suitable infrastructure. This may involve installing wastewater treatment plants, composting toilets, eco-friendly septic tanks or other innovative solutions. The design should take into account local topography, available resources and usage patterns. Training and maintenance Training residents in the use and maintenance of infrastructure is an essential step. Proper understanding of systems enables efficient use and extends the life of the installations. Implementing a regular maintenance program guarantees the sustainability of the ecological sanitation system. Case studies: examples of success Discover in the following paragraphs some success stories regarding ecological sanitation systems. Scandinavia Scandinavian countries have widely adopted green sanitation systems, implementing composting toilets, green filters and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment plants. This approach made it possible to preserve water quality, reduce the impact on fragile ecosystems and improve home values. India In response to growing sanitation challenges, initiatives in India have promoted the use of composting toilets and wastewater treatment systems based on affordable technologies. These projects have improved local hygiene, reduced water pollution and contributed to food security through waste recovery. Challenges and future prospects Although ecological sanitation has many benefits, challenges remain. These challenges include the high initial cost of infrastructure, the need for cultural change, and resistance to moving from a conventional to a more sustainable approach. However, with increased awareness, government incentives and technological advancements, these challenges can be overcome. Ecological sanitation represents an important step towards a sustainable future, reconciling human needs with environmental preservation. By adopting innovative solutions, raising awareness in communities and investing in suitable infrastructure, we can create sanitation systems that benefit both people and the planet. Implementing these ecological approaches is an investment in a future where the health of the planet and the quality of life of communities coexist harmoniously.
Previewed a house in South Euclid on a recent Friday which required disembarking from the Red Line in Little Italy and picking up a #9 bus for the rest of the trek. As I waited for the bus, here was my view: You may not know that one of the new construction properties planned for […]
Previewed a house in South Euclid on a recent Friday which required disembarking from the Red Line in Little Italy and picking up a #9 bus for the rest of the trek. As I waited for the bus, here was my view: You may not know that one of the new construction properties planned for Little Italy is in the works and is this apartment building. I know when it was first presented to the Planning Dept. it was a 40 unit building with an estimated average rental price of $1600/month. They broke ground at the beginning of September and are, seemingly, making good progress. The second thing to notice, if you’ve not been there in a while or are not living in the area: the Rapid Stop is new, moved essentially one street over from where it used to be. I have to say it makes sense and looks pretty darn good. I particularly liked this view because it shows Transit Oriented Development making a difference in Little Italy. $1600/month has been totally supportable over the last few years in University Circle (which is literally just past the new building and maybe one more block down the hill. I say supportable rental pricing but obviously only certain economic brackets can support it. More people fit into that category, however, than you might have imagined. You want to live in Little Italy and not rent? Not as easy as what’s considered normal in most neighborhoods. Unless you want (and can afford) new construction. Little Italy lore has it as a tight-knit community with long roots to the area. I was wondering if this was still true so I did some digging on home title transfers over the last few years. I looked up homes on E 120th, E 123rd and Coltman. (I did not include new construction from the last decade or so). Yes, most of the transfers of ownership occurred between people with the same last names, so handing down your home ownership to your children is still very popular. Word of mouth sales to people with not the same but similar last names are 2nd most popular method. Some of those surnames could belong to a married child of course. There is also a smattering of LLC ownerships of single and multi-family older homes. A long time owner could be preparing to sell thus the LLC name as owner, but I do think some of the homes have been purchased by individuals or partnerships looking to rehab and resell or rehab and rent. There is a two family home on W 126th for sale. Over 2500 sq feet, a back yard patio. Price? Just over $300k. Not necessarily a price point for a wide variety of buyers but there you have it. There is also a condo project going up on the old Murray Hill School site. I believe I saw one of the units for sale (1200 sq feet, 2 bedrooms) for $250k. There is also a huge town home for sale on E 123rd. 3400 sq ft, 3brs, 4 baths and listed at $789,000. If you are looking to live right in the core of Little Italy and buy a resale home closer to a more average sale price (under $200k) you might be waiting a while or out of luck. Little Italy is an historic district so when new construction is proposed there are additional guidelines over a non-historic area. As I was typing this I checked and found an article written almost a year ago by Michelle Jarboe of the Plain Dealer. The article can shed more insight into one of the newer buildings. Also, at 123rd and Mayfield is another proposed new construction project and you can read about that one here. It’s called The Hemingway Project with rents starting at $2000/month. How did they get the land for this project right in the heart of it all? It used to be a restaurant, a developer bought it a few yrs ago for a half million dollars and then sold it to this development partnership more recently. I will keep you posted on this one. If you come to visit from out of town? Take the Red Line Rapid from the airport, get off at the Little Italy stop. Art Galleries, shops, food and great walking make it a great place to visit. Mamma Santa’s restaurant opened sometime in the sixties and some people still swear it’s their favorite pizza in the City. Corbo’s and Presti’s Bakery which has been around since 1903. Believe me, there is a lot more food to eat and more to the story of Little Italy but that awaits future posting.
Looking At Actual Sales To Determine Home Improvement Value
Would it be helpful to have a few tips about return on investment for house repair/remodel projects related to future sales of your home? If you said yes, are not alone. It’s such a hot topic (and has been for many years). I’m going to link one article because it’s one of the few that […]
Would it be helpful to have a few tips about return on investment for house repair/remodel projects related to future sales of your home? If you said yes, are not alone. It’s such a hot topic (and has been for many years). I’m going to link one article because it’s one of the few that actually mention that there are other factors regarding a sale price (not list price) for your home, besides what you’ve remodeled or enhanced. It’s from the HGTV website. I caution everyone about trying to attach specific percentage values to upgrades. Yes, basic upgrades like a roof and furnace or upgraded electrical will almost always give you a percentage return on those upgrades. But they are not a guarantee of a certain price! I’m only going to focus on a few things in this post. Two things I know to be true, without assigning a percentage value to a home repair/improvement. If your home is a resale with wood floors, I feel comfortable saying that shiny, clean wood floors are involved in the majority of home sales within the City of Cleveland. Younger buyers are not crazy about wall to wall carpeting and if they are looking at a 1920s Arts and Crafts style home, well they probably want wood floors. Of those 56 homes sold in my last post? 90% of them had floors like the ones in the above photo. They are refinished, clean and shiny. Yes, it may have cost $2500 (what I was told) to refinish the living room, foyer and dining room at the home in the photo but buyers might move on to another home to purchase, one that already has shiny wood floors, if you don’t do it. An example of a house that sold for more than normal market value in 2017. This house sits on W. 122nd street. Maybe you’ve walked these blocks south of Lorain. To me, these blocks are fantastic. Pretty, well kept homes, yards, flowers. Still, we’ve just come out of a recession, right? During that time, there weren’t a lot of homes sold. The above house is special because it’s ‘energy efficient.’ So much so that it has certification paperwork to prove it. Newer windows, HVAC, insulation, you name it. This makes the house much, much less expensive to operate per month. Lower heating and cooling bills. They DID open up one wall, 1/2 way. So you still did not lose the separation to the dining room but you can talk to people in there. What’s unusual? Two other homes that sold on this street in 2017, one was a 3br 1 1/2 bath home for $33,500 and one was a 4 bedroom one bath home for $45,000. This house once went into foreclosure, the Land Bank (discussed in an earlier post on here!) took it over, a housing non-profit took it over and here it is. Also, remember how many bedrooms in the other two homes sold? This home has 2 bedrooms and one bath. The first two sales on W 122nd had about the same square footage, in the 1200 sq ft range. This home? 1,089. And yet it was listed at $99,000 and sold for $97,000. Cash deal? I don’t know but not necessarily because this house, via tax auditor’s info, is ‘tax’ valued to sell between $86,000 and $108,000. Why the heck am I telling you all this? Because getting an energy efficient home is one thing you can do to garner more money When you sell it. Get it upgraded with an energy efficiency certification. By the way, there is a true market for 2 bedroom one bath homes. (More reasonable than a 500 sq ft rolling tiny home, right?). But this one’s true value is total upgrading and upgrading to a terrific energy savings level. Which by the way also gave this house a tax abatement (yes, you can get this for your home too) which still has 5 yrs ish to go on it. Currently paying around $400/yr on taxes. Plus the savings on utility bills. So on a street where a normal, pretty or upgraded home might go for 65 to 79k, this house with really good amenities to offer to garner a sale price almost 20k more. You will spend money to do the energy efficiency update, no question! But if you bought the house a long time ago and don’t have a mortgage on it, or if you bought it more recently at a below market rate price, I swear this is the way to go. And depending where your home is located, a lack of those first two things may not hinder you from making money on your sale. I suggest everyone: check out an energy efficiency certified upgrade before you do any renovations on your home. It doesn’t cost you anything and gives you something to consider. Both for your own value (less taxes, utility bills) or a future buyer for your home. Let me know if you have questions or would like me to preview your home to discuss the above suggestions further.