Construction and demolition waste (CDW) is, by mass, the largest waste stream in Germany. This material consists of soil and rock, roadway paving, construction debris, and mixed construction and demolition rubble, as well as gypsum-based waste. The per capita volume of construction waste in Germany is almost 0.9 tons per person per year. Comparable figures for Europe range between 0,05 and 1,8 t/person per year. Reference values for CDW quantities can also be determined according to building-specific characteristic values based on waste produced per cubic meter of gross building volume (BRI, from Bruttorauminhalt). The individuality of buildings leads to a broad range of these characteristic values, from 1,2 t/m3 BRI for small, compact buildings to 0,1 t/m3 BRI for large halls. Mixed construction and demolition waste is created when buildings are erected, specifically 0,044 t/m3 BRI. In addition to mineral-based components, a large portion of CDW is wood, paper, cardboard, and plastic materials. Some 70% of CDW is already recycled. Thus, recycling of building materials makes a significant contribution to the conservation of mineral resources. |