Retaining concrete’s value with wise circular economy
Photo credit: AFRY
For concrete, the most important aspect of circular economy is to use the material in a wiser manner throughout its lifecycle; not just recycling demolished concrete into crushed concrete. Key tools include reducing the use of concrete through design and modifiability, preserving existing buildings and reusing precast concrete products, as well as diligently sorting demolition materials for use in applications of higher added value.
The earlier in the process that circular economy solutions are incorporated in the planning of a construction project, the greater the benefits achieved in terms of both the environment and economy. In practice, this requires close cooperation between clients, designers, contractors, material suppliers, and authorities.
Circular economy is not a restriction in concrete construction, but provides the possibility to strengthen the role of concrete as a long-lived, highly modifiable building material which retains its value.
