In the heart of Europe, a silent revolution is brewing in the construction sector, one that could significantly reshape the energy landscape and drive us closer to a circular economy. At the forefront of this shift is Anastasija Komkova, a researcher at the Chair of Sustainable Construction, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, ETH Zurich. Her recent study, published in the journal ‘Developments in the Built Environment’ (translated from English: ‘Developments in the Built Environment’), delves into the promising world of open-loop mineral wool waste recycling, offering a glimpse into a future where waste is not just managed, but transformed into valuable resources.
Mineral wool, a staple in building insulation across Europe, often ends up in landfills at the end of its life. However, Komkova’s research, conducted across five European countries, reveals that this waste can be recycled into alkali-activated materials (AAMs), a sustainable alternative to conventional cement. This process, known as open-loop recycling, not only reduces waste but also decreases carbon emissions, a significant win for the energy sector.
The study, which involved interviews with stakeholders producing mineral wool waste-based AAMs at a pilot scale, identified several barriers and enablers to this emerging value chain. One of the key challenges is the limited economic viability at the pilot scale. However, Komkova sees a clear path forward. “Industrial upscaling with optimised supply chains can address this issue,” she explains. “It’s about creating symbiotic relationships between urban areas and industries, where waste from one becomes a resource for another.”
The research also highlights the variability in consumer acceptance of waste-based materials across different countries. This, Komkova suggests, underscores the need for combined actions from industry, cities, and policymakers. Economic incentives, green public procurement, and public awareness campaigns could all play a role in nudging the transition towards a circular economy.
So, what does this mean for the future of the construction and energy sectors? The potential is immense. As Komkova puts it, “We’re talking about a future where waste is not just minimized, but valued. Where buildings are not just constructed, but integrated into a larger, circular system.” This shift could lead to significant reductions in carbon emissions, more sustainable use of resources, and a more resilient construction sector.
The study’s findings, presented in a SWOT analysis, offer a roadmap for stakeholders looking to navigate this emerging landscape. It’s a call to action, a challenge to rethink our approach to waste and resources. And as the world grapples with climate change and resource scarcity, this message has never been more urgent.
As we stand on the cusp of this revolution, one thing is clear: the future of construction and energy is circular. And with researchers like Komkova leading the way, that future is not just a distant dream, but a tangible reality within our reach. The question now is, will we seize the opportunity? The energy sector, with its hunger for sustainable solutions, could be the catalyst that drives this change. After all, every waste problem is an opportunity in disguise, waiting to be transformed into a valuable resource.
