Welcome to this inaugural issue of RE:GENERATION, our new magazine exploring the evolving world of demolition.
www.General-Demolition.co.uk
Sustainability Approach
Introduction
At General Demolition, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our leadership fully embraces the Circular Economy, driving bold action and clear direction. This commitment runs through the entire company, shaping culture, decisions and day-to-day operations. We operate our own dedicated storage hubs, enabling us to hold and rehome reclaimed materials until a new use is secured. These locations can be utilised to hold re-use assets, until a new home can be found. We have our own in-house sustainability function and it is led by Daniel Leung ISEP | MIIRSM | BREEAM AP, who delivers our WST01-compliant audits and acts as both BREEAM Accredited Professional and Sustainability Champion.
www.General-Demolition.co.uk
Demolition Re:imagined: Building Tomorrow from Today’s Materials
At General Demolition, we are firmly committed to delivering sustainable demolition and enabling works, aligned with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We believe in building a better tomorrow through actions taken responsibly today. We have designed and implemented a number-of initiatives to combat our carbon emissions, innovate our waste management processes and to always source supplies and suppliers locally wherever possible.
Our Environmental Commitment We recognise our responsibility to reduce environmental impact both locally and globally. Guided by our ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management accreditation, we continuously monitor and improve our environmental performance. We ensure our operations reflect the highest standards of environmental responsibility, from carbon emission reduction to innovative waste management. General Demolition aims for 100% diversion from landfill of all non-hazardous materials on all its projects. Hazardous waste material is always handled in a responsible manner by licensed specialists and taken to an appropriate facility for disposal. Through ongoing professional training and diligent management, our operatives are fully aware of and subscribe to the core values that General Demolition Ltd. upholds in its approach to sustainability, reuse and recycling.
Sustainability in Practice Our practices are driven by a deep awareness of the immediate and lasting effects of our operations. We strive to mitigate adverse impacts while securing a cleaner, more sustainable environment for future generations. Every decision is informed by our values and shaped by a forward-thinking ethos.
Our Values
Progressive – Striving continuously for better
Determined – Leading by example Integrity – Taking full responsibility
for our actions. Considered –
Respecting our people, clients, community, and the environment
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach
Approach to Sustainability
Commitment to BREEAM As part of General Demolition Ltd.’s commitment to BREEAM and ISO14001:2015 Environmental Standard. A WST01-pre-demolition / refurbishment audit / survey is undertaken prior to commencement of all projects in-order-to identify opportunities to “re-home” any items including (desks, chairs, blinds, cupboards, IT equipment, etc.) which can be re-purposed and to avoid landfill. In-order-to achieve our goal of a zero waste to landfill status. General Demolition Ltd. have adopted the ’Waste Hierarchy’ to minimise the environmental impact of waste generated from our enabling works.ents, community, and the environment Each secured project will be subject to a WST01-pre-demolition/ refurbishment audit (SWMP), which i s carried out at part of the pre- start activities. This will be created in-line with the BREEAM requirements provided for the redevelopment scheme. In addition to the WST01-Pre-demolition/ refurbishment audit, General Demolition Ltd. also completes a ‘PPG6 Checklist’ to provide information on all aspect’s demolition works which could affect the environment.
Waste Hierarchy Most favoured option
REDUCE
REUSE
REPAIR
RECYCLE
RECOVER
DISPOSE
Least favoured option
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Sustainability Approach
Our Approach
General Demolition’s Sustainability Approach Following Review of Meinhardt Sustainability Specification
www.General-Demolition.co.uk
General Demolition’s Sustainability Approach
Our Commitment to True Circularity At General Demolition, our approach goes far beyond statutory obligations, we embed circular economy principles into every stage of our projects. This isn’t simply a box-ticking exercise; it’s a deeply held belief. We are passionate about driving sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of our works, making every decision count towards a greener future. Ambitious Reuse Targets We don’t just aim for 100% diversion from landfill; we live and breathe it. Today, we’re proud to stand at an impressive 98% diversion from landfill rate, pushing relentlessly towards that final 2%. Maximising Sustainability Outcomes Our Sustainability Champion, Daniel Leung (ISO 14001 trained, BREEAM accredited), manages compliance, documentation, and reporting with precision. Daniel’s expertise, combined with our track record of delivering BREEAM “Excellent” and “Outstanding” outcomes, ensures every sustainability process is not only compliant but also strategically aligned to accreditation requirements. With decades of experience working in London, we have an in-depth understanding of Greater London Authority and City of London Council policies on environmental impacts from strip-out works, enabling us to navigate regulatory landscapes seamlessly and proactively.
Streamlined Site Logistics for Reuse Before any item leaves site, we confirm capacity, quantity, and suitability with our trusted reuse partners to ensure assets are effectively rehomed. Leveraging our expertise, we follow a seamless, well- structured process that correctly protects, sorts, and organises materials from the outset. We design slick site logistics to create dedicated, accessible areas for reusable items, enabling swift, safe, and secure collection and maximise circular outcomes. Challenges are addressed early, with solutions aligned to circular economy best practice and delivering measurable, lasting benefits. Trusted Partnerships & Proven Infrastructure Our network of recycling and reuse partners is built on years of successful collaboration. Combined with our professionally managed storage sites, we securely store, preserve, and redistribute recovered assets with maximum efficiency. This robust infrastructure ensures full traceability, uncompromised quality. In partnership with our clients, collaborators, and dedicated team, we go beyond project delivery, we create lasting change, leaving behind a built environment that’s greener, smarter, and kinder to the planet.
A Hierarchy That Shapes Every Decision
Our commitment is evidenced through: Real-time tracking via Material Index online platform – (Reuse Material Brokerage) Early-stage engagement with reuse partners Full audit trail of every decision in the hierarchy
On-site reuse > Off-site reuse > Recycling > Energy recovery >Landfill We follow the waste hierarchy rigorously:
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach
Material Brokerage - Digitalising Reuse
Reuse Partner
General Demolition enjoys a trusted, long- standing partnership with Material Index , a trailblazer in digitising the reclamation industry and closing the loop between demolition and construction. Through Material Index’s innovative platform, we can rapidly catalogue on-site materials and access advanced tools for management, reporting, material exchange, and traceable evidence of reuse. This technology brings tangible benefits to every project, ensuring we maximise reuse potential and deliver clear sustainability outcomes. Together, we offer comprehensive material audits at all stages of a building’s lifecycle including detailed pre-demolition audits. These are crucial for reassessing a building’s salvageable assets once site possession is gained, as conditions often evolve from initial surveys to the commencement of works.
We also provide expert valuations of materials prior to deconstruction, best practice advice, and clear reporting on carbon savings, helping our clients realise both environmental and financial value. All items are catalogued utilising the ‘Material Index’ platform whilst undertaking the WST01 - Pre-demolition/ Refurbishment Audit and will create a digital material passport. All items that are re-used are signed for by the receiving party upon collection. We can also provide traceable procurement, helping you meet your embodied carbon targets. Please refer to our full tender submission for full details on our sustainability & circular economy approach.
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach
Reuse Options - Our Key Reuse Partners
General Demolition have a robust supply chain, which is utilised to ensure that Circular Economy is achieved.
Furniture
Freecycle.org Furniture, furnishing/fixtures, kitchen & WC ceramics
B2B Taking used glass partitioning to be re-used as alternative glass products.
Emmaus Taking used glass partitioning to be re-used as alternative glass products.
Raised Access Flooring
RMF RMF’s Total Take Back Scheme collects and re-uses all cut-offs, waste panels, and raised access flooring systems from projects.
Timber
Men Sheds improving wellbeing, reducing loneliness & combatting social isolation.
Studio Tip Finding local circular solution for waste resources
STORE STORE is a not-for-profit design collective transforming materials and lives through youth-focused, socially impactful projects
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach
Reuse Options - Our Key Reuse Partners (cont.)
General Demolition have a robust supply chain, which is utilised to ensure that Circular Economy is achieved.
Metal Ceiling
SAS International Take used metal ceilings panel acoustic pads to be re-use as metal ceiling and bespoke architectural metalwork.
Carpet Tiles
Envirocycle Re-using carpet tiles and electrical items – supplying schools, charities, SME businesses and local authorities.
Tarkett Heterogeneous and homogeneous vinyl, laminate, rubber, wood, carpet rolls & tiles, linoleum, artificial grass and track recycling. Nationwide collection.
Ironmongery
Franchi Franchi’s innovative take-back scheme for ironmongery gives often-overlooked office hardware a new lease of life by collecting, refurbishing, and reissuing them through its reuse programme.
Luminaries
18 Degrees Champion the concept of circular lighting with their 18 circular initiative, refurbishing high quality luminaries to create beautiful, low impact lighting schemes that align aesthetic excellence with sustainability goals.
Acoustic Installation
Sound Zero Repurpose acoustic panels and soundproofing materials, transforming them into high-performance bespoke acoustic solutions for reuse in new architectural applications.
This list is an example of some organisations that General Demolition would look to contact.
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach
Our Key Recycling Partners
General Demolition have a robust supply chain, which is utilised to ensure that Circular Economy is achieved.
Glass
Saint-Gobain Taking used glass partitioning to be re-used as alternative glass products.
Timber
Newgen Recycling Recycling mixed waste materials including dry mixed recyclables (e.g., cardboard, paper, plastics), mixed metal, glass, green and general waste, brick reclamation, concrete and hardcore removal. Powerday Recycling mixed waste materials including dry mixed recyclables (e.g., cardboard, paper, plastics), mixed metal, glass, green and general waste, brick reclamation, concrete and hardcore removal. TMR Recycling all grades of scrap metal including ferrous metals (iron & steel) and non-ferrous metals such as copper, brass, aluminium, etc. EMR Recycling all grades of scrap metal including ferrous metals (iron & steel) and non-ferrous metals such as copper, brass, aluminium, etc. Powerday Recycling mixed waste materials including dry mixed recyclables (e.g., cardboard, paper, plastics), mixed metal, glass, green & general waste, brick reclamation, concrete and hardcore removal. Rockfon Provides acoustic ceiling & wall solutions. It offers a recycling service that collects & processes offcuts & waste tiles from projects, ensuring these materials are fully recyclable.
Metal
Plasterboard & Installation
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Sustainability Approach
Sustainability Targets
www.General-Demolition.co.uk
Sustainability Targets: Healthy & Circular Products
2019 DATE ACHIEVED
100% of timber sourced must be FSC certified and suppliers to provide evidence showing responsible sourcing is demonstrated via chain of custody certificate. TARGET
2030 TARGET DATE
2030 TARGET DATE
Reduction in the amount CO 2 emission from transportation of waste material TARGET
100% of waste material to be recycled, re-used TARGET
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Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach
Sustainability Targets:
Healthy Planet
2030 TARGET DATE
TARGETS
50% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emission from 2022 baseline, in accordance with Science Based Targets (SBT). 100% of electricity requirements source directly or in-directly from renewable energy. 100% of commuting to and from site undertaken via public transport or otherlow-carbon travel methods.
2030 TARGET DATE
100% of our water management practices include measures designed to minimise usage and environmental discharge TARGET
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Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach
Sustainability Targets: People & Communities
ONGOING TARGET DATE
Employees provided with opportunities to actively engage with communities on locally beneficial environmental volunteering schemes Increase our community engagement year-on-year on environmental matters TARGET
ONGOING TARGET DATE
ONGOING TARGET DATE
TARGET
TARGET
Operatives are provided with the tools and necessary resources to improve their financial, physical / mental health and well-being Maintain a zero-workplace injury score year-on-year Employees to be offered opportunities for learning and development annually.
Employees to receive training / engagement on diversity and inclusion topics on a regular basis Employees have the opportunity to discuss/share their views on topics and issues that are important to them in a safe environment
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach - Sustainability Targets Sustainability Approach
Carbon
Net Zero General Demolition Ltd. are taking appropriate measures to reduce our carbon footprint and are making significant progress on our 2030 roadmap.
As part of our commitment towards a net zero carbon-built environment, we intend to: Take a whole-life view of carbon in the projects we deliver. Deliver fossil fuel free construction operations,
We are committed to: Targeting net zero carbon in our operations by 2050 by setting annual reduction targets at 6% to ensure we meet a 50% reduction by the year 20230. Our 6% year-on-year carbon reduction pathway is designed to be consistent with the UK Government’s Net Zero Strategy, ensuring that General Demolition’s operations are fully aligned with national decarbonisation priorities for the built environment sector. Allocating resources for low-carbon technologies and methods of demolition. Collaborating with our supply chain and innovative organisations to support the uptake of new low-carbon technologies and processes in our industry. Developing a strategy to measure and reduce embodied carbon through the projects we deliver. Developing and delivering carbon awareness training to our employees, thereby working to integrate carbon reduction into the decision- making processes of our workforce. Utilising our experience to influence and support our clients in delivering net zero carbon projects, striving for early engagement in-order to maximise the opportunities to reduce carbon. Identifying and ensuring compliance with relevant low-carbon planning requirements at national, regional and city level, and influencing industry best practice to ensure we are continually showing leadership and therefore driving revolutionary change.
while optimising energy use on sites. Take a holistic view of sustainability throughout project delivery, balancing the drive to a low-carbon economy with that of both circular-economy principles whilst delivering social value.
Through our management we: Manage the operation to minimise waste and avoid pollution to air and water in accordance with Environment Agency best practice guidelines Establish a good neighbour policy and to implement an active communication strategy with stakeholders. As-well-as attaining very high scores under the Considerate Constructor Scheme (CCS) Select materials of low intrinsic environmental impact and low cost in use
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98% Achieving Diversion from landfill
REUSE RECYCLE RETHINK
20%
Currently achieving in Re-use
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BREEAM Considerations
www.General-Demolition.co.uk
WST 01
Construction Waste Management
BREEAM
MAN 03
Responsible Construction Practices
At General Demolition Ltd., sustainability isn’t just a consideration it’s embedded at the core of everything we do. We are proud to deliver environmentally responsible, energy-efficient solutions that align with the highest industry standards, helping to shape a greener future for the built environment.
As part of our commitment, we actively adhere to the principles of the BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) standard across all our projects, ensuring that the developments we support achieve outstanding levels of environmental performance and sustainability. To lead this initiative, General Demolition has a dedicated in-house BREEAM Accredited Professional (AP) , who acts as the primary point of contact for the client’s sustainability consultant throughout the project lifecycle. We also provide expert valuations of materials prior to deconstruction, best practice advice, and clear reporting on carbon savings, helping our clients realise both environmental and financial value.
Our BREEAM AP plays a pivotal role in delivering maximum value by: Undertaking comprehensive Pre- refurbishment or Pre-demolition Audits during the pre-start phase, identifying salvageable assets for re-use and quantifying the waste material expected during enabling works. Championing best practices on-site to drive resource efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Strategically targeting and maximising BREEAM credits in key categories, directly supporting our clients’ ambitions of securing an “Excellent” or “Outstanding” rating.
Through expert leadership and a proactive approach, we ensure every opportunity is taken to support the circular economy, enhance project sustainability outcomes, and exceed environmental targets.
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach - Sustainability Targets Sustainability Approach
BREEAM
WST 01
Construction Waste Management
WST 01 – Construction Waste Management
As part of our pre-start activities, Daniel Leung PISEP | MIIRSM | BREEAM AP will lead the delivery of a comprehensive Pre-demolition / Deconstruction and Pre-refurbishment Audit . A highly experienced environmental professional, Daniel brings dual value to the project as both our BREEAM Accredited Professional (AP) and appointed Sustainability Champion. The audit will quantify key materials present on site and identify assets with re-use potential, setting out clear re-use targets, recycling rate predictions, and anticipated landfill diversion rates – all in alignment with the Greater London Authority’s (GLA) Circular Economy Statement.
Our process is fully digitised, enabling real-time creation of an asset register that can be directly uploaded to an online marketplace to facilitate meaningful re-use outcomes. Our in-house team, under Daniel’s leadership, has consistently helped clients achieve WST 01 credits under both BREEAM New Construction and BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out schemes at Concept Design Stage.
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach - Sustainability Targets Sustainability Approach
BREEAM
MAN 03
Responsible Construction Practices
MAN 03 - Sustainability Champion (construction)
MAN 03 - Material Selection and Resource Efficiency
In his role as Sustainability Champion, Daniel will monitor the project’s progress to ensure alignment with the defined BREEAM performance targets and sustainability process requirements. His oversight ensures continuity, accountability, and excellence from pre-construction through to project completion. Upon completion, Daniel will produce a detailed Sustainability Report outlining the project’s BREEAM-related performance. This will include data on re-used assets (both on and off site), recycled materials, energy and water usage, and transport metrics such as distance travelled, fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions. By combining the roles of BREEAM AP and Sustainability Champion, Daniel offers a seamless and expert-led approach to maximising sustainability outcomes and delivering BREEAM credits effectively and efficiently.
We at General Demolition Ltd. will always prioritise responsibly sourced, low-impact materials, such as ethically sourced timber that is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. This provides assurance that we are only using sustainable timber that has been sourced from FSC certified forests, that are continuously replenished and does not cause damage the surrounding environment.
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach - Sustainability Targets Sustainability Approach
BREEAM
MAN 03
Responsible Construction Practices
MAN 03 - Environmental Management System
MAN 03 - Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) General Demolition Ltd. observe and implement ‘The Code of Considerate Practice’ on all our projects. The three core areas focus on:
ISO14001:2015 Environmental Management System (EMS) is an integral part of General Demolition Ltd.’s overall Integrated Management System (IMS). Which enables us to identify issues and to improve our environmental performance through continual monitoring and support.
Respecting the Community Care for the Environment Valuing the Workforce
By adhering to the Code, we are able to improve how the construction industry is portrayed and build trust in the areas that we operate in.
Enabling the future
Sustainability Approach - Sustainability Targets Sustainability Approach
BREEAM MAN 03-01
ISO14001:2015 Environmental Management Standard
ISO14001:2015 defines the environment as: the surroundings in which an organisation operates, including air, water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, humans and their interrelation.
www.General-Demolition.co.uk
CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION
The management system of certificate number 206913
General Demolition Limited Lyon House, 16 Lyon Road, Walton on Thames, Surrey, KT12 3PU, United Kingdom
has been assessed and certified as meeting the requirements of:
ISO 14001:2015 Demolition services providing soft strip, structural modification, top-down demolition, facade retention, site remediation, emergency salvage services and the management of recycling services; For clients in the commercial, residential, education, industrial, hotels and retail sectors throughout London and the Home Counties. For the purpose of SSIP this Organisation has been assessed against a Principal Contractor CDM role
Further clarifications regarding the scope of this certificate and the applicability of requirements may be obtained by consulting the certifier.
Valid from: Initial certification: 04 March 2016 Latest issue: 19 February 2025
Expiry date: 03 March 2028 Subject to annual assessments.
Authorised by
Mike Tims Chief Executive Officer
british-assessment.co.uk Certificate issued by Amtivo Group Limited T/A British Assessment Bureau Ltd. Certification is conditional on maintaining the required performance standards throughout the certified period of registration. Amtivo Group Limited. 30 Tower View, Kings Hill, Kent, ME19 4UY.
Sustainability Feedback
www.General-Demolition.co.uk
Sustainability Feedback
“”
Dear Mr Newman
We would like to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to you, your colleagues and the company as a whole for your generous donation towards our charity of kitchen cabinets, kitchen items, office furniture and various fixtures and fittings. Your donation will have a significant impact on helping us to fulfil our mandate of reaching out towards those who need help and support within the local community and beyond. We have now been able to successfully construct a much needed kitchen for our building using these items. We were delighted when we were informed by Pastor Christopher Najair that the items were ready and we are greatly encouraged by your kindness and we appreciate and value the time taken to prepare this donation in readiness for our use. We are all aware of the very challenging environment that we live and work in however your generosity brings encouragement and joy to us to continue with our mandate to help those who are in need.
May we take this opportunity to pray that you and your families will have a peaceful new year 2024.
Yours sincerely
Pastors Charles and Gervis Mensah Senior leaders, Citizenship in Christ Fellowship Email from Pasters Charles and Gervis Mensah
“”
Good afternoon
Just wanted to drop a quick email as I personally think people focus too much on negatives nowadays and not enough on the positives. I would like to thank Steve and Marius in regard to the dishwasher and kitchen tap donation. This has been a massive help, and they are both an asset to your team, in being professional and going the extra mile to make a difference. I have no doubt they will both continue with their ‘caring for the community attitude.
Thank you again!
Lydia Brow
“”
Subject: Re: Falcon
Hi Ashlyn and co.
Just wanted to say thank you so much for the planters, bike racks and benches. They are really appreciated. The benches are already being used exactly where they were parked.
All the best.
Ben Paul via Email – NEU Architects
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