# 1 in a series of 10 case studies

Erickson's Headquarters
Hudson, WI


Photo of Erickson Building

How specifications were used to reduce construction waste


The specifications required the successful bidder to submit draft and final waste management plans. The contractor hired an independent waste manager to work with the subcontractors and contractor to set a realistic waste reduction goal and see that it was met. A 75% waste reduction goal was set, and it was achieved primarily through weekly site meetings, written updates to all site employees, and free lunches. The contractor reported that the waste manager improved his company's ability to recycle waste on all its projects. Another benefit reported by the contractor was increased quality, safety and productivity. For example, to reduce waste, the contractor ordered many items on pallets instead of in boxes. This saved labor time unboxing and also made parts more visible and therefore easier to locate. This building incorporated other aspects of sustainable design such as energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and use of recycled materials and native landscaping.

Project Description

New construction of
corporate headquarters;
private sector


Building Size

70,000 square feet


Project Status at Time of Publication

Project complete


Waste Impact

Recycled 75% of the
project's waste


Project Costs

reduced
stayed the same
increased


Local Landfill Fee

$63/ton


Contact

Joel Schurke
The Cuningham Group
201 Main Street, SE, Suite 325
Minneapolis, MN 55414
612-379-3400


Dale Forsberg
Watson-Forsberg Co.
1433 Utica Avenue South,
Suite 252
Minneapolis, MN 55416
612-544-7761


Printed by Triangle J Council of Governments, publishers of WasteSpec: Model Specifications for Construction Waste Reduction, Reuse, and Recycling. For further information or a WasteSpec order form, call 919-549-0551 email Judy Kincaid, at mailto:%20jkincaid@tjcog.org.