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The careless disposal of waste in the construction industry can have a harmful impact on the environment - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 4 - 2009
Question 4
The careless disposal of waste in the construction industry can have a harmful impact on the environment. The accompanying sketch shows a mixed range of building mat... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The careless disposal of waste in the construction industry can have a harmful impact on the environment - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 4 - 2009
Step 1
Outline two environmental hazards associated with the disposal of this waste to a landfill site.
Answer
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Metal Content: Materials with a metal content can rust, leading to potential contamination of the water supply. If metals leach into nearby water sources, it can cause damage to aquatic life and the surrounding ecosystem.
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Plastic Material: Plastics do not biodegrade and can remain in the environment for hundreds of years. When disposed of in a landfill, they take up space and can harm wildlife that may ingest them, causing health and ecological issues.
Step 2
Using notes and neat freehand sketches, suggest two methods of managing the disposal of the waste in a more environmentally friendly manner.
Answer
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Recycling Program: Implementing a stringent recycling program on the construction site is crucial. Materials such as wood, metal, and plastic should be sorted and designated for recycling rather than being thrown away. Properly labeled bins can assist in segregating materials for easy collection by a waste management service.
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Material Reuse Plan: Establish a plan to encourage the reuse of materials. For instance, bricks and concrete from demolished structures can be repurposed for new building projects or for landscaping. Additionally, items such as old doors and cabinets can be refurbished and utilized in new ways, minimizing waste.
Step 3
Give one example where wood can be reused on a construction site and outline how this helps reduce waste on the site.
Answer
One example of wood reuse on a construction site is using old wooden pallets for making planters or garden beds. This not only gives the wood a new purpose but also reduces the amount of waste that would otherwise be sent to a landfill. By repurposing wood, the site minimizes the overall waste produced and can potentially create functional items that enhance the environment.