Reuse and recycling of multiple inert waste streams in a public building project

The project involves demolishing a gymnasium and school complex and reconstructing a kindergarten, elementary school, school restaurant, and medical center on a 6,150 m² site. Integrated into an urban area of public facilities and homes, it is supported by the South Region to adopt a circular economy approach. The architect, aided by a circular economy project manager, incorporated specific circular economy requests into the public procurement process. A detailed resource assessment identified materials for reuse and recycling, including furniture, ceiling slabs, a gas boiler, stone rubble, electrical equipment, and sanitary ware. Some items were reused on site, while others were recovered by local associations and residents.
The deconstruction produced over 1,500 tonnes of concrete, which was crushed and screened for reuse in gabion filling, backfilling, and sewage sand. Tiles and asphalt were also recycled. The circular economy project manager oversaw the bidding process, ensuring standards for reuse and recycling. The city provided a 3 km plot for treating deconstruction concrete with a mobile crusher/screener, securing the future use of the site. Tiles were recovered for applications like deck protection and gabion filling, while asphalt was reused for backfill. Key stakeholders included the city of Six-Fours (owner), the architect, the circular economy project manager, and construction companies, essential for recycling efforts.