The use of recycled & secondary materials in residential construction

How to source, correctly specify and use secondary and recycled materials in residential construction

The use of recycled and secondary materials as aggregates in construction for applications such as pipe bedding and concreting aggregate is increasing, with current estimates indicating that up to 25% of construction aggregates come from recycled and secondary sources. Their use supports the Government’s sustainability agenda and gives developers credits for use of recycled content in construction projects.Interestingly, the UK has the highest proportion of aggregate demand met from recycled and secondary aggregates in the EU, with further increases predicted in the future.

This guide describes how to source, correctly specify and use secondary and recycled materials in residential construction (illustrated by case studies and examples). It also provides key information on how to avoid incorrect use (and consequent unsatisfactory performance) of these materials.