Demolition and recycling - European Policy

The European Commission is formulating a strategy for the reduction and recycling of waste. There are no barriers for the use of granulated ceramic material. But unfortunately, it is often mixed with contaminated demolition waste. If this is purely brick masonry it is not a problem when converted to landfill, as generally contact between ceramic material and ground or surface water causes no toxic side effects. After all, bricks and tiles in service are frequently exposed to ground and surface water and do not normally pose a threat.
For a more sustainable construction, ceramic building products should be incorporated into flexible buildings with long design lives in order to ward off the spectre of demolition for as long as possible. Ceramic products are certainly very durable and will stand the test of time to prove they are truly sustainable.




© TBE-Europe 2005
www.staywithclay.com