Resource efficiency action plans

As part of the Concrete Industry Sustainable Construction Strategy, the industry has committed to developing a Material and Resource Efficiency Programme to inform best practice across the lifecycle of concrete in the built environment.

In 2012, the ready-mixed concrete and precast concrete sectors, partnered with the clay brick sector and each developed Resource Efficiency Action Plans (REAPs) with WRAP. The initiative demonstrates the sectors’ commitment to increasing the opportunity for resource efficiency, throughout the lifecycle of these materials and construction products.

The REAPs have been developed to assist the supply chain in managing material efficiency from raw material extraction through to the demolition and deconstruction of buildings; based on a common European framework for the lifecycle of a construction product, as defined by EN 15804. The action plans were developed in consultation with stakeholders from across the supply chain. This collaborative approach, underpinned by evidence based research, identified practical recommendations, actions and targets that are all contained in the each sector’s REAPs.

In 2016, the collaboration between the brick, concrete and masonry sectors will result in the publishing of the first REAP progress report. The REAP working group is also working on emerging and developing aspects related to the resource efficiency agenda, for example the circular economy. The publishing of the European Union Circular Economy Communication is a significant milestone in the increasing importance of this model to the construction sector. This activity will inform the future development of the REAPs, particularly regarding construction and demolition waste as well as improving building design.

For more information on the Resource Efficiency Action Plans visit www.sustainableconcrete.org.uk

For more information on Material Efficiency download The Concrete Centre guide Material Efficiency