WRAP (Waste & Resources
Action Programme) has launched an Open Tender inviting bids to carry out a Life
Cycle Assessment of Aggregates.
The purpose of the work is to develop a Life Cycle Inventory and Assessment
for aggregates produced from both primary and recycled resources. The study
should also make a comparison between processing options for aggregates for
unbound applications, aggregates for concrete, and aggregates for asphalt.
The resources to be assessed are:
* igneous rocks; * sedimentary rocks; * sand and gravel deposits (land and
marine); * recycled unbound inert waste; * recycled concrete; and * recycled
The study will cover all aspects of extraction and processing of primary resources
through to the point of their dispatch as aggregates. It should also investigate
issues such as the excess production of fines where sales and production are
out of balance. Washing processes that enable the further processing of fines
and other aggregate sizes are to be considered for both primary and recycled
resources, in addition to conventional screening and crushing.
The report should also assess the relative proximity of sources of primary
aggregates and recycled aggregates to the market place and disposal options
for inert construction and demolition wastes.
This opportunity has arisen from the requirement for further data on the environmental
profiles of various sources of aggregates, and on the comparative environmental
impacts of the different disposal and recovery routes.