The built environment produces about one-third of the world’s waste. A recent report by McKinsey found that minimising waste and maximising utility could add $360 billion in net value gain by 2050. Little wonder then, that there is a global drive to get construction to become greener. See how recycled aggregates can make a difference.
Recycling project materials to make aggregates are a way to reduce project costs, contribute to your company’s sustainability drive – and match client’s green values.
So, what exactly are recycled aggregates, and what are they used for?
Aggregates are crushed, processed materials made from old concrete, bricks and other construction waste that can be reused as a cost effective, sustainable ‘fill’ product on new projects. They are commonly used as:
- Sub-base: For roads, driveways, and foundations
- Fill: For landscaping and general construction fill
- New concrete/asphalt: Can be incorporated into new mixes for improved properties
See our products, including recycled aggregates, here
What are the benefits of using recycled aggregates in construction?
1. Cost Savings when choosing recycled aggregates
Recycled aggregates are often more affordable than primary (virgin) aggregates because:
- They require less extraction and transport
- Processing costs are lower
- They reduce landfill disposal fees for demolition materials This can make a noticeable difference on high-volume projects
2. Environmental Sustainability
Using recycled aggregates helps to:
- Reduce demand for quarrying and the extraction of natural resources
- Minimise carbon emissions linked to transport and processing
- Lower the volume of construction and demolition waste sent to landfill This supports circular economy principles and improves a project’s sustainability profile
3. Regulatory & Planning Compliance
Many projects require:
- Minimum recycled content
- Waste reduction measures which meet regulations set by the Environment Agency and local authorities
- Demonstration of sustainable procurement Recycled aggregates which meet standards such as BREEAM, LEED, and local authority planning conditions
4. Reliable Performance & Quality
Modern processing methods such as crushing, screening, grading, and contamination checks means recycled aggregates can meet many of the same specifications as primary aggregates, including uses in:
- Sub-base materials (e.g., Type 1)
- Fill materials
- Capping layers
- Pipe bedding
- Certain concrete mixes, depending on certification
5. Shorter Supply Chains
Recycled aggregate sites are often local, which:
- Reduces transport mileage
- Lowers carbon emissions
- Improves delivery reliability
- Minimises traffic impact around project sites
6. Supports Circular Economy & Corporate Sustainability Goals
Using recycled aggregates:
- Demonstrates responsible resource management
- Improves ESG reporting
- Strengthens sustainability narratives in bids, client presentations, and CSR reporting
7. Can Improve Site Efficiency
Crushing and reusing site-won materials (e.g., concrete, brick, hardcore) can:
- Reduce the number of waste loads leaving site
- Reduce the number of aggregate deliveries to site
- Increase programme efficiency and reduce congestion
This is especially valuable on tight urban projects.
Conclusion
Recycled aggregates offer stable, consistent performance when sourced from reputable suppliers. Here at Earthline, we are proud to be one of the largest independent earthmoving, recycling and quarrying companies in the south of England, and proud producers of quality aggregates. Earthline have recycling facilities at most of its sites, including Shipton, Shellingford and more. See our locations here.
