Cost is a key consideration within any construction project; how do you balance rising prices without cutting corners throughout the process? For many of our clients, that’s where using recycled aggregates comes in; they’re not just a smart way to reduce your environmental impact, they can also help to stretch your budget further.
At SRC Group, we’re proud to lead the way with a range of sustainability initiatives, including a number of recycled aggregates, created on-site at our fully-licensed recycling centres.
One things we’re often asked is: ‘how much do they cost and are they really worth it compared to traditional, primary aggregates?’ In this blog we’ll take a closer look at the cost of recycled aggregates and how they are changing the construction landscape for the better.
Recycled aggregates are produced by processing construction and demolition waste, such as concrete, asphalt, and brick, into usable materials. This process not only diverts waste from landfills but also reduces the need for virgin materials, therefore conserving natural resources.
At SRC Group, our recycled aggregates undergo rigorous in-house testing to make sure that they meet the highest quality standards, including compliance with WRAP protocols, Highways 600 series and other British regulations.
To date, SRC Group has already processed and recycled 30 million tonnes of waste, which we then turn them into usable products; such as our recycled aggregates and ECO-BLOC® blocks.
One of the biggest advantages of using recycled aggregates instead of primary (or virgin) materials is the cost. Recycled aggregates are usually cheaper to produce and transport, especially because they’re often sourced locally. This means fewer miles, less fuel, and lower costs all round.
Plus, you save money on waste disposal. Rather than paying to send construction waste to landfill, that same material can be repurposed and put to good use in your next project. It’s a smart way to cut costs and reduce environmental impact at the same time.
Whilst recycled aggregates are generally more affordable, several factors can influence their cost:
On top of saving money up front, using recycled aggregates could also help you to cut costs elsewhere. For example, if you’re using virgin materials, you’ll have to pay the Aggregates Levy, which, as of April 2024, is £2.03 per tonne. That can really add up over time. By choosing recycled alternatives, you skip that charge completely.
There are also longer-term wins. Projects that use recycled materials are more likely to meet sustainability targets and can even help towards achieving certifications like BREEAM. This not only looks good on paper, it can open doors to more work, especially with clients or public sector tenders that prioritise green credentials.
A lot of people still think that recycled aggregates aren’t as good as primary materials, but that’s not the case. When they’re processed properly (like they are at SRC Group), recycled aggregates can perform just as well as virgin ones, sometimes even better.
We use state-of-the-art equipment and implement stringent quality checks to make sure that everything meets only the highest standards. This means that you get strong, reliable materials that are ready for all kinds of jobs, whether it’s road building, concrete, or general construction. They’re a solid, sustainable alternative that doesn’t compromise on performance.
ECO-BLOC®
At SRC Group, we’re not just focused on recycled aggregates, we’re continually looking at the bigger picture too. That’s where ECO-BLOC® comes in. ECO-BLOC® blocks are exclusive to SRC Group and are created using a mix of recycled fine and coarse aggregates, along with cement.
These blocks are incredibly versatile and you’ll find them in everything from load-bearing walls to block and beam floors. They’re built to last, with great insulation properties for both heat and sound; helping to improve energy efficiency across the board. If you’re looking to keep your project green without cutting corners on quality, ECO-BLOC® is another great option.
Our dedication to sustainability is represented fully in our circular economy model. We manage the entire lifecycle of construction materials, from demolition and waste collection to processing and supplying recycled products. This closed-loop system ensures maximum material reuse and minimal environmental impact.
In 2024, we successfully restored 20 acres of arable land as part of our ongoing land restoration efforts. This project involved reinstating old quarries with materials that could not be reused in construction; giving the land a new lease of life for agricultural use.
At SRC Group, we are working hard to continually improve our sustainability initiatives. From investing in cutting-edge recycling technology to expanding our network of processing sites, environmental-responsibility is at the heart of how we operate.
We don’t just supply recycled aggregates; we manage the whole process. This means better quality control, full traceability, and a reliable supply that you can count on.
By choosing SRC, you’re not only getting great value, you’re also reducing waste, lowering carbon emissions, and helping push the construction industry towards a more sustainable future. It’s a smarter choice for both your project and the planet.
For more information on our recycled aggregates and other services, please visit our Primary & Recycled Aggregates page.
Alternatively, contact us today to speak to one of the friendly team members. You can call us on 0208 594 0169, email us at enquiries@www.srcgroup.co.uk or fill out our online contact form.
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