REUSE OF CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION WASTE IN THE NETHERLANDS FOR ROAD CONSTRUCTIONS

Abstract

In the Netherlands, the use of secondary raw materials (SRM) is strongly promoted by the authorities and industry. For the most part, this is a direct result of rising costs of waste disposal and limitations on the extraction of primary raw materials from Dutch soil. More than 90% of SRM are currently used in road construction. Use in concrete is only marginal due to higher costs compared to primary raw materials. Landfilling these wastes would result in a loss of raw materials, undesirable pollutant emissions, energy loss, and space use. The waste volume must be reduced and the released materials have to be reused wherever possible to minimize their undesirable environmental impacts. This article discusses the Netherlands National Government objectives for prevention and reuse of its SRM as contained in the 'Implementation Plan for Construction and Demolition Wastes' in road construction.