Paving the Way for Sustainable Demolition
23 October 2024
The EDA Think Tank 2024, which was held in Brussels on October 9, 2024, brought together important conversations about the potential and difficulties in pre-demolition audits and construction and demolition (C&D) waste management.
(PHOTO: EDA)
In-depth conversations that highlighted the industry’s pressing need to implement more sustainable and efficient practices were prevalent throughout the event.
The European Commission’s participation made this year’s event particularly noteworthy by highlighting the increasing convergence of sector activities with EU laws.
Their participation demonstrated that waste management is now a top priority on legislative and commercial agendas and that incorporating the concepts of the circular economy is essential to the future of building and demolition.
The day started with a thorough examination of the C&D Waste Management Protocol, which has been revised to address new issues and take advantage of modern technology.
Stricter guidelines for selective demolition are introduced in the updated protocol, which emphasizes tearing down buildings in a way that maximizes material recovery.
Additionally, new guidelines were presented for the safe handling of hazardous materials like asbestos, ensuring that health and safety regulations continue to evolve alongside industry demands.
Digital building logbooks, which will enhance material tracking during a building’s lifecycle, were one of the most interesting developments unveiled.
When it comes time to demolish buildings, this information will be essential since it will allow for more effective recycling and resource recovery procedures while reducing trash. Enhancing resource efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of demolition operations need these approaches.
(PHOTO: EDA)
The second segment of the event addressed pre-demolition audits, a practice rapidly becoming a requirement for larger projects.
These audits play a key role in guaranteeing safe demolition practices, protecting both the environment and public health.
By identifying materials suitable for recovery and reuse, pre-demolition audits facilitate better planning, resulting in more effective selective demolition aligned with circular economy goals while minimizing waste.
The EDA Think Tank 2024 marked a crucial step forward in advancing more sustainable demolition techniques. The updated C&D Waste Management Protocol and its emphasis on pre-demolition audits will help the industry reduce waste and enhance safety.
As we look ahead, it’s important to continue refining these practices and embracing innovative solutions. Together, we can lead the way in environmentally conscious demolition and ensure a more sustainable future for the sector.
Stefano Panseri, EDA President
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