Construction minerals and mineral waste: possibilities for sustainable extraction and circular processing in Estonia

Forecasts indicate an increasing need for construction raw materials, but at the same time, there is growing pressure to reduce the environmental and social impacts of mining. Regionally, a shortage of construction raw materials is emerging, and various waste materials are awaiting recycling. The objectives of the project are to find new solutions for more sustainable mining of construction minerals, optimize the processing methods, explore various uses for secondary raw materials and contribute to the development of alternative construction materials based on local resources. The project is based on a cross-sectoral approach and close collaboration with professional associations and companies. The expected outcomes are a more sustainable and resource-efficient mining sector, implementation of ESG principles, deminishing construction and demolition waste via circular usage of secondary raw materials, and ensuring academic development in the field.