The production of concrete and of concrete structures consumes large amounts of resources, such as water, energy, cement and steel and emit large amounts of CO2 in their production processes. ISO 13315-1:2012, Environmental management for concrete and concrete structures – Part 1: General Principles, aims to provide the basic rules on environmental management for concrete...

The EU has proposed higher recycling targets in a bid to transform Europe’s economy into one where nothing is wasted, supporting sustainable growth and a zero-waste economy. Under the new targets, European countries will: Ban the burying of recyclable waste in landfill after 2025 Recycle 70% of municipal waste (everyday rubbish) and 80% of packaging...

The commercial landscape has been changing over the last two decades.  Supply chain strategy is now a bridge between competitive strategy and sustainability.   Establishing the correct strategy can start with social, economic and ecological factors such as energy and waste consumption, waste, human rights, labours, carbon output, all of which directly influence: Products Customers Competitors Regulations...

ISO 16075 is a new standard relating to the treatment and reuse of wastewater in agricultural irrigation projects and aims to maximize the benefits and reduce any related risks for the agricultural irrigation systems associated with the use of recycled water. In regions where water is scarce, treated wastewater can provide a new and vital source of water.  It makes environmental...

In very simple terms, Lean is a particular way of structuring and managing a project that reduces waste while increasing quality and value for the customer. Lean encourages cost savings and allows for greater flexibility in the project development process and maximises co-operation with all stakeholders. Adapting lean principles and tools gives everyone involved in the project...

How can new Horizon 2020 circular economy research & innovation projects benefit from the experience of existing projects funded under different EU programmes? On 8 December 2015 EASME organised a kick-off & networking meeting for 21 waste-related research & innovation projects to help them share their knowledge and explore synergies. The meeting marked the official...

The circular economy eliminates the concept of waste and recognises that everything has a value.  This includes looking at waste as the underutilisation of resources. Circular supply chain:  Introduces fully renewable, recyclable, or biodegradable materials that can be used in consecutive life cycles. Recovery and recycling:  Creates production and consumption systems in which everything that used to be considered...