What is concrete transplantation and why is it the future?
The construction industry is facing a major challenge in terms of sustainability. By 2050, the construction industry must be fully circular, and that requires innovative, sustainable solutions. Concrete transplantation, a unique technique developed by Meijs Ingenieurs & Uitvoering, plays an important role in this. But what exactly is concrete transplantation and why is it such a promising method for the future of construction?
The challenge: concrete and carbon emissions
Concrete is by far the most widely used building material in the world. Every year, between 20 and 30 billion tonnes of concrete are produced worldwide. This large-scale production leaves a significant environmental footprint, particularly through cement – the largest source of CO₂ emissions in concrete. On average, cement makes up 20% of the concrete mix and is responsible for significant CO₂ emissions. For every kilo of concrete, around one kilo of CO₂ is released. This means that if 20 billion tonnes of concrete are produced worldwide, around 4.5 billion tonnes of CO₂ are released every year. And if we assume a production of 30 billion tonnes, these emissions even increase to 6 billion tonnes of CO₂.
The amount of construction waste in the Netherlands is also considerable. By 2025, around 30 million tonnes of construction waste is expected to be released annually. Concrete transplantation can play an important role in reducing concrete waste and CO₂ emissions by reusing materials and producing new ones.
What is concrete transplantation?
Concrete transplantation is an innovative technique in which concrete elements from demolition projects are ‘transplanted’ into new construction projects. Think, for example, of concrete façade elements that are released during the demolition of an old building and then reused in a new building. Instead of destroying the old concrete and making new concrete, the existing concrete is given a second life.
Not only is this method completely circular, it is also extremely sustainable: no new raw materials are used and the CO₂ emissions normally associated with the production of new concrete are avoided. Concrete transplantation therefore contributes to both waste avoidance and CO₂ reduction.
The advantages of concrete transplantation
Concrete transplantation offers benefits for both the environment and the customer:
- Reduction of environmental impact: By reusing existing concrete, CO₂ emissions are reduced that are generated during the production of new, cementitious concrete.
- Cost savings: Reusing concrete reduces the overall cost of the project, making concrete transplantation not only sustainable but also financially attractive.
- Circular construction methods: Concrete transplantation fits seamlessly into the circular ambitions of the Dutch construction sector and contributes to a sustainable construction industry.
Concrete finishing as a standard in the construction industry
The construction industry is under increasing pressure to become more sustainable. New legislation such as the Climate Act and the commitment to a circular economy by 2050 are forcing companies to find innovative solutions to reduce their environmental footprint. Concrete transplantation fits perfectly into this transition and offers a concrete, viable alternative to traditional construction methods.
At Meijs Engineers & Execution, we continue to develop the possibilities of concrete transplantation. Whether it concerns façade elements, floors or other concrete structures, we help companies realise their sustainable ambitions.
Would you like to know more about the possibilities of concrete transplantation for your project? Contact us for a no-obligation consultation or download our comprehensive knowledge document on our website. Together we build a circular future.
