Construction
The construction industry can impact on the environment in a
number of ways, including emissions to air, land contamination,
noise pollution, waste disposal and discharges to water.
Taking time at the start of a project to understand its potential
environmental impacts can bring business benefits, including
reduced costs for waste disposal and less time wasted clearing up
after incidents. For example, a site waste management plan can cut
the amount of waste produced considerably and increase resource
efficiency. On the other hand, firms can incur substantial fines
for depositing construction waste anywhere other than an official
waste disposal site, or for undertaking work that results in
polluted water being released into the local water supply.
When various contractors and subcontractors work on one site, it is
essential that each party is clear about who is responsible for
environmental issues, such as waste management and disposal,
obtaining licences and permits and accepting liability when things
go wrong.
SEPA would always prefer to prevent pollution by working in
partnership with business through education and understanding,
rather than prosecution. We therefore provide construction firms
with advice and information to make them aware of their
environmental obligations.
Find out more about:
General construction guidance
Regulation and licensing
You may also find the following links useful:
Air, noise and odour
Chemicals
Land
Waste
Water