As industries worldwide accelerate their efforts to achieve Net Zero, the construction sector has a pivotal role to play in creating a sustainable future. From reducing emissions and conserving natural resources to designing materials for reuse, the opportunity for transformation is vast. Steve Birch, Circularity Director at Tarmac shares how we’re leading this charge and reshaping the lifecycle of construction materials through circular economy principles. By embracing innovation and embedding sustainability into our operations, we’re setting new benchmarks for infrastructure that’s built to last – while safeguarding the planet.
Circularity in action
At Tarmac, our vision for circularity centres on creating a closed-loop system that minimises waste, maximises resource efficiency, and lowers embodied carbon. Nowhere is this more evident than in road construction, where our circular initiatives have become a game-changer. Through our National Road Planing business, we’re revolutionising road maintenance and new construction with sustainable practices that emphasise recycling and reuse.
One of our flagship initiatives is the use of Recycled Asphalt Planings (RAP). Every year, we reuse more than 1.5MT tonnes of RAP, re-using it in our Asphalt production process. These materials replace virgin aggregates, reducing the need for quarrying and the emissions associated with material extraction, furthermore the bitumen content of the RAP reduces the quantity of new bitumen needed in our process. Our “Virtual Quarry” solutions take this a step further, enabling us to recycle road surfaces directly on-site using innovative techniques like foamed bitumen and cold paving. This not only minimises waste and transport emissions but also eliminates the need for landfill disposal of hazardous tar-bound materials, significantly lowering environmental costs for our customers.
Circularity beyond roads
Tarmac’s commitment to circularity extends far beyond road construction. Across the entire lifecycle of construction materials, we’re redefining how infrastructure is designed, built, and deconstructed. This includes prioritising reuse and recyclability at every stage. Our materials are crafted to ensure that structures can be dismantled efficiently, with components returned to the supply chain.
For example, in aggregate production, we recycle construction, demolition, and excavation waste into certified materials like Type 1 and Type 2 fills, capping layers, and granulated asphalt. These materials form the backbone of sustainable construction projects across the UK, showcasing how waste can be transformed into a resource.
In our blocks business, we lead by example, recycling over 140,000 tonnes of materials annually to create sustainable aggregate blocks. Using innovative materials such as crushed household glass and biomass ash, we reduce reliance on virgin resources, while reclaimed foundry sand and paper ash help us lower the carbon footprint of our products. Our Aircrete block manufacturing process is a closed-loop system in itself, recycling every offcut back into production and achieving zero waste before the autoclaving stage. To further conserve resources, we’ve implemented admixture technologies that save over three million litres of fresh water annually, demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Closing the loop: turning waste into opportunity
Tarmac’s circularity ethos is also evident in our approach to construction, demolition, and excavation waste. By transforming waste into high-quality, recycled construction materials, we not only divert significant volumes of waste from landfills but also reduce demand for new material extraction. This closed-loop system supports the development of a circular economy that benefits both the environment and local communities.
Our portfolio of sustainable products, such as recycled Type 1 and Type 2 fills, granulated asphalt, and Ultitrec footpath materials, exemplifies this approach. These materials help our clients meet their sustainability goals while delivering infrastructure that is both durable and environmentally responsible.
Leading the way to net zero
At Tarmac, circularity is more than a strategy—it’s part of our DNA. By reimagining the lifecycle of construction materials, we are not only advancing toward Net Zero but also redefining industry standards. Our efforts to conserve resources, reduce waste, and lower embodied carbon reflect our commitment to sustainable innovation. From RAP in road construction to recycled aggregates and blocks, Tarmac’s work demonstrates the potential of circular practices to transform construction.
As the construction industry evolves to meet the environmental challenges of our time, collaboration is key. We invite industry partners to join us in prioritising sustainable, closed-loop systems that deliver long-term benefits for clients, communities, and the planet. Together, we can build a resilient, sustainable future—one project at a time.
For more information about circular construction at Tarmac, click here.
