C&DW Recycling

C&DW constitutes the biggest waste stream in Europe – almost 30% of all waste. The main constituent of C&DW is demolition waste consisting mainly of concrete, bricks and road rubble. Only a minor part comes from construction such as cut-off materials and packaging. C&DW must be source separated in order to be fit for recycling. At least the inert mineral waste (bricks, concrete) must be separated from the mixed C&DW. Metals like reinforcement bars are recovered in the recycling process. Hazardous waste is kept apart in any case. It is identified during an inventory prior to demolition and subsequently removed and stored apart.

Inert C&DW can easily be recycled into recycled aggregates. These can be mixed recycled aggregates, or for instance purely recycled concrete aggregates. The main use of mixed recycled aggregates is in road constructions. Recycled aggregates meet the requirements of the Construction Product Regulation and the European product standards for aggregates. Their use is therefore safe and sound.

Recycled aggregates are also fit for use in concrete. It is the ultimate contribution to a Circular Economy.

According to European standard EN206 up to 50% of recycled aggregates may be used in new concrete.

The following European studies on C&DW are available:

CDW infrastructure study EU as recycling society – C&DW EU C&DW management protocol

Guidelines for the waste audits Management of C&DW in Europe Resource efficiency in the building sector

Transforming Construction Waste into Sustainable Resources Across Europe

C&DW is an essential resource of new construction materials that should not be disposed of. High quality recycling and high recycling rates are achievable in all Member States when certain approaches are used and certain conditions are met. These documents provide more information.

Developing recycling of C&DW; A 10 step approach FIR Factsheet on Recycled Aggregates Example The Netherlands

About concrete recycling

Members of FIR are constantly looking for possibilities to improve recycling. Recycling of concrete into new concrete products is an example that shows the innovation strength of the sector. By supplying high quality aggregates, primary resources can be saved and emission of CO₂ reduced.