European recycling associations call for stronger action on Construction & Demolition Waste
FIR, FEAD and Recycling Europe are calling on the European Commission to use the upcoming Circular Economy Act to unlock the circular potential of Construction and Demolition Waste.
Construction and Demolition Waste is the largest waste stream in the European Union, accounting for more than one third of all waste generated. Despite its significant potential, recycling rates differ greatly between Member States and recycled construction materials still face competition from virgin materials.
In their joint paper, the three associations present practical recommendations to accelerate high-quality recycling and increase the use of recycled aggregates across Europe. Their main recommendations include:
- introducing a European recycling target of 70% for inert Construction and Demolition Waste;
- promoting the use of recycled aggregates through public procurement;
- requiring Member States to develop national Construction and Demolition Waste strategies;
- introducing electronic registries to improve the tracking and monitoring of waste streams;
- strengthening quality standards and increasing confidence in recycled construction materials.
The associations emphasise that Europe already has the knowledge, technology and experience required to improve the circular management of Construction and Demolition Waste. The Circular Economy Act provides an important opportunity to translate this experience into effective European legislation.
Read the full joint paper: