The construction industry in New Zealand is becoming increasingly aware of the financial and environmental benefits that come with reducing construction material waste, especially as landfill disposal costs continue to rise year after year. To get started with practical steps for minimizing plasterboard waste on construction sites, consider implementing the following strategies: 

1. Ownership and Accountability for Waste: Clearly define responsibility and accountability for waste reduction during both the design and construction phases. Make sure to:
   • Identify the individuals or teams responsible for monitoring and implementing waste reduction initiatives. 
   • Set specific waste and waste reduction targets for the project. 
   • Regularly report on waste streams using data from waste collection service providers. 
   • Include waste reduction objectives in project contracts and subcontractor agreements to ensure they remain a priority. 
2. Room Measurements and Ordering: It makes sense for the plasterboard installer to take site measurements and specify sheet lengths and volumes. Experienced installers can help select the most efficient sheet sizes to reduce offcut waste and provide guidance on installation methods. For example, using 3600mm sheets can enhance versatility for wall applications.
3. Horizontal Plasterboard Installation: Specify the installation of plasterboard horizontally on walls whenever possible. This approach allows for better alignment of sheet lengths with the room dimensions, reducing overall plasterboard waste. Horizontal installation also decreases the number of sheet joins in a room, minimizing the need for finishing work.
4. Window and Door Openings: Sheet edge joints formed at the edge of door and window openings are highly prone to cracking. To reduce the risk of cracking it is strongly recommended that sheets are cut around openings and joints are formed no closer than 200mm to the edge of the opening. 
5. Plasterboard Delivery Timing: On compact construction sites, early plasterboard deliveries to hard-to-access areas before the building is enclosed can be beneficial. Using a Hiab lift delivery before window installation can simplify access to challenging locations and reduce the need to manoeuvre long sheet lengths in tight spaces.
6. Managing Waste Streams on Site: Collaborate with the main contractor on-site to understand their approach to managing waste streams. Consider grouping common waste streams, such as plasterboard, treated and untreated timber, to make it easier for waste providers to collect and recycle.

Implementing these strategies will not only contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective construction process but will also align with the industry's growing focus on responsible waste management.
For further information, visit gib.co.nz/sustainability 

For additional details, contact GIB® Helpline at 0800 100 442 or visit gib.co.nz

- Information as of November 2023