ACR+

An important contributor to European economy, the construction sector generates almost 10% of GDP and provides 20 million jobs, mainly in micro and small enterprises. The sector consumes large quantities of raw materials, chemicals, electrical and electronic equipment, as well as energy. Sustainability in the construction sector is often spontaneously interpreted from an energy efficiency angle, which is well covered by the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive and the Energy Efficiency Directive. However, the broader vision at EU level encompasses resource efficiency, duly recognising that sector has a significant impact on waste management.

Indeed, Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste accounted for a third of the 2.5 billion tonnes of waste generated in the EU in 2014, making it the largest stream. As the name suggests, C&D waste arises from activities linked to buildings and infrastructures – but also from road planning and maintenance. The various materials used are reflected in the waste too: excavated soil, concrete, bricks, glass, wood, metals, gypsum, plastic, solvents, and asbestos. Almost three-quarters of the total waste in the EU is mineral and solidified waste, mostly connected to mining and quarrying activities and to C&D activities.

The sheer volume in question brings waste streams beyond municipal waste, such as C&D waste, into the limelight as key areas for policy action.

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Also in this issue:

• Commission Work Programme 2018: An agenda for a more united, stronger and more democratic Europe
• 30 billion euros will be invested in new solutions for societal challenges and breakthrough innovation
• The European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform is gaining momentum

... and much more!