How to Meet Sustainability Targets Using Recycled Aggregates

At a Glance

Recycled aggregates are typically produced from construction waste and enable project managers to cut down on carbon emissions while reducing landfill use. They help projects meet sustainability regulations without compromising quality. When sourced, tested, and handled correctly, they provide a compliant, cost-efficient substitute for fresh materials and support the construction industry’s sustainability standards.

Recycled Aggregates Sustainability

There are many reasons to use sustainable building materials in projects, as there’s a major focus on sustainability across the construction industry. Every project, big or small, now carries a responsibility to use materials that support the environment and reduce waste.

For many contractors, the aggregates that they use in their projects play a significant role in ensuring sustainability. Since aggregates are a key component of every project’s foundation, finding sustainable ways to source and use them can make a real difference. That’s where recycled materials stand out as a reliable and practical choice.

Recycled aggregates come with many benefits, including meeting long-term sustainability goals for your projects. By giving old materials a second chance, contractors can reduce their environmental footprint and meet growing industry demands for sustainable construction.

Local authorities and industry groups have started to highlight recycled aggregates sustainability targets as part of a wider move towards more efficient construction methods.

This makes it even more important for contractors to understand how to use recycled aggregates the right way.

In this blog, we’ll explain what recycled aggregates are in-depth and how you can use them sustainably for your next project.

What are Recycled Aggregates & How are They Produced?

Recycled aggregates are materials recovered from old construction or demolition sites that are then reused in new projects. They often come from concrete slabs, bricks, asphalt, and other construction debris that would otherwise go to a landfill.

Instead of being discarded, these materials are processed and turned into useful aggregates.

The process starts with collecting waste from demolition or renovation projects. This waste is then crushed into smaller pieces using heavy machinery. After crushing, the materials go through screening to separate particles by size and quality.

Once sorted, the aggregates are graded to match the standards required for construction use.

By following these steps, recycled aggregates become reliable alternatives to newly mined materials. They play a key role in supporting recycled aggregates sustainability goals by reducing waste and protecting natural resources.

The Environmental & Regulatory Benefits of Recycled Aggregates

Using recycled aggregates reduces carbon emissions because most recycled materials are processed locally. This helps reduce energy use and carbon emissions linked to transport and supports the UK’s wider net zero plans.

The best part about using recycled aggregates is that they can offer the same quality as virgin aggregates while supporting environmental goals and compliance.

For instance, recycled concrete used in roads or foundations can meet UK standards for recycled aggregates in concrete while maintaining the same strength and reliability as newly mined concrete.

To sum it up, here are some key environmental and regulatory benefits of using recycled aggregates:

• Lower carbon emissions through reduced energy use
• Less reliance on virgin materials, thereby preserving natural resources
• Better compliance with UK waste reduction and sustainability regulations
• Reduced landfill waste throughout the project

Challenges, Standards, and The Use Of Recycled Aggregates in Construction

While recycled aggregates are a popular choice in the construction industry, some contractors still worry about their consistency and availability. These concerns are valid, but strict quality controls and good aggregate storage practices help ensure that these materials perform reliably.

But how do you use them in your projects to meet recycled aggregates sustainability UK targets? The key is to plan your sourcing and testing carefully so that quality and environmental goals stay aligned. Here’s how you can achieve that:

• Source recycled aggregates from reliable suppliers who follow strict quality control processes
• Match the aggregate type to your project needs, such as subbase or fill use
• While a good supplier does their own extensive tests, we recommend doing a manual test on your end as well for safety
• Store and handle aggregates correctly to avoid contamination or loss of quality
• Reuse on-site materials wherever possible to minimise your project’s carbon footprint
• Keep track of material use to demonstrate compliance with sustainability targets

Recycled Aggregate Sourcing Tips

When sourcing recycled aggregates, always work with trusted suppliers who can provide proof of material testing and quality assurance. That way, you can be sure that your aggregates meet industry standards and will perform well in your projects.

It’s also best to choose local suppliers near your project site to reduce transport costs and emissions. Communicate with your supplier regularly to ensure that the materials are processed and sourced to your site responsibly.

If you’re looking for a reliable aggregate supplier, Middleton Aggregates offers certified recycled materials and expert guidance for every project.

Contact Middleton Aggregates to Get Quality Recycled Materials Today

At Middleton Aggregates, we supply a wide range of durable aggregates and fill materials for various construction and landscaping projects at reasonable rates. We also offer a plant hire service to meet all your construction needs.

Operating from Blackborough End, King’s Lynn, we serve Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and the wider UK. Our team of industry experts are always available to provide you with the best advice on any questions you may have.

For more information on our products and services, visit our website or contact us to find out more.