A recent report from the Mineral Products Association (MPA) reveals that the volume of recycled and secondary aggregates in Britain reached an unprecedented 73.5 million tonnes in 2022. This achievement underscores the construction industry’s commitment to recycling and resource recovery, aligning with circular economy principles.
Key findings from the report include:
- Recycled and secondary materials accounted for over 30% of the total demand for aggregates in Britain.
- 60.3 million tonnes of recycled aggregates came from construction, demolition, and excavation wastes (CDEW).
- 5.8 million tonnes of asphalt plannings were reused in road construction.
- Industrial by-products, such as China clay waste and incinerator bottom ash, contributed 7.4 million tonnes of secondary aggregates.
Despite these achievements, the report notes challenges in data tracking due to the lack of comprehensive national statistics. The introduction of a mandatory UK-wide digital waste tracking system in 2025 is expected to improve data accuracy.
Primary aggregates still constitute 70% of aggregate demand, highlighting the need for a more efficient planning and permitting system to support sustainable resource use. The report emphasises that ongoing investments are enhancing the quality and availability of recycled materials, giving developers more confidence in specifying these materials for construction projects.
Recycle it Global: Leading the Way in Recycled Aggregates
At Recycle it Global (RIG), we are dedicated to addressing the waste crisis and building materials shortage through innovative recycling solutions. Our approach involves transforming waste from construction, demolition, mining, and marine dredging into valuable recycled aggregates. Here’s why we are at the forefront of this industry:
- Sustainable Waste Management:
- We process waste that would otherwise end up in landfills, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.
- Our methods align with circular economy principles by reintroducing materials back into the construction industry.
- Advanced Recycling Technology:
- By investing in state-of-the-art technologies, we efficiently crush, segregate, wash, and screen waste materials to meet strict technical standards.
- These processes ensure high-quality recycled aggregates suitable for various construction applications.
- Mitigating Material Shortages:
- The construction industry faces significant material shortages. By providing a reliable source of recycled aggregates, we help bridge this gap and support ongoing infrastructure development.
- Our recycled products reduce reliance on primary aggregates, conserving natural resources.
- Environmental and Economic Benefits:
- Using recycled aggregates reduces the carbon footprint associated with new material extraction and processing.
- Our operations create economic opportunities by fostering a market for recycled materials and supporting sustainable construction practices.
- Commitment to Innovation and Quality:
- We continuously invest in improving our processes and technologies to enhance the quality and availability of our products.
- Our commitment to excellence ensures that recycled aggregates from Recycle It Global meet and exceed industry standards.
By focusing on sustainable solutions and innovative recycling techniques, we are not just addressing current waste management challenges but also paving the way for a more sustainable and resource-efficient future in the construction industry.
To read MPA’s full article find it here and learn how we can support you with your waste management needs contact us here.
Statistics and image credit – MPA.