Circular Concrete

This thesis investigates the possibilities of increasing the use of circular concrete, i.e. concreteproduced with recycled concrete aggregate, in the Swedish construction sector. Thebackground is the extensive production of construction and demolition waste, a large part ofwhich consists of concrete, which is currently mainly used as a filler material instead of beingreused in new concrete. The study therefore aims to map the obstacles and driving forces thatexist to increase the use of recycled aggregate and to identify concrete measures to promoteits use.A literature study was combined with a case study at Skanska and interviews with industryrepresentatives to obtain both qualitative and quantitative data. The results show that only aminimal part of Sweden's concrete production is currently circular, but that there is a growingdemand. The main obstacles were identified as restrictive regulations and standards, problemswith logistics and storage, and a lack of knowledge and demand in the market. At the sametime, there are strong driving forces linked to resource management, environmental concernsand a growing interest in sustainability among major players in the industry.The study concludes that adapting standards and regulations, better logistics solutions, andincreased knowledge and awareness within the industry are required to realize the potential ofcircular concrete. The study recommends pilot projects and clearer requirements as ways topromote more widespread implementation.