Ensure that the SWM policy is in place and that responsible parties are using it as a guideline for any waste management decisions made during the performance period. The credit requires the policy to be implemented throughout the performance period.
Distribute copies of the SWM policy to all relevant personnel. Ensure that requirements are communicated to waste haulers and collaborate with haulers to identify best practices for waste collection and proper tracking of recycling rates. Engage haulers as early as possible to smooth transitions and identify opportunities.
Tenant waste that is handled by a separate waste hauler does not need to be covered in the policy, but project teams must identify in documentation which portions of the building are not governed by this policy.
The SWM policy must also address goals and procedures for recycling mercury-containing lamps, which are not covered by one of these credits (although their purchase is covered by MRc4: Sustainable Purchasing—Reduced Mercury in Lamps).
The SWM policy must cover the waste streams that are within the building and site management’s control covered by these credits (see those credits for detailed descriptions of these waste streams):
MRc7: Solid Waste Management—Ongoing Consumables
MRc8: Solid Waste Management—Durable Goods
MRc9: Solid Waste Management—Facility Alterations and Additions
Research the availability of additional rapidly renewable materials before construction begins to ensure that the project earns this credit. If product decisions are made after construction begins, there may be less time to review data sheets carefully and much greater risk of using a noncompliant product.
