​​The role of alternatives to primary aggregates in reducing emissions from the construction sector​ 

Scotland’s construction industry relies heavily on traditional primary aggregates. Lower carbon alternatives such as recycled concrete and incineration bottom ash aggregates are gaining traction. Innovations in recycling technology have improved the feasible quality and consistency of alternatives to primary aggregates, leading to greater acceptance among contractors and suppliers.  

This study sought to investigate the availability of alternatives to primary aggregates and analyse barriers to their uptake through literature review, data collection and stakeholder engagement.

The report provides four case studies of where alternatives to primary aggregates have been used in Scotland. 

Summary of findings

The study has found that alternatives to primary aggregates can reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly, with local sourcing further amplifying these benefits.

However, logistical and supply chain challenges may limit these benefits when transportation distances exceed certain thresholds. As such, while there are promising pathways for the increased use of alternatives to primary aggregates in Scotland, strategic actions would be required to address existing barriers and to support the transition towards a more sustainable construction sector. 

The three key interrelated challenges to facilitating increased deployment of alternatives to primary aggregates in Scotland are:

• technical viability and infrastructure
• standards and market demand
• data availability. 

In the context of the Scottish Aggregates Tax and other potential fiscal initiatives, there are two headline takeaways from this work: 

• Until robust and reliable Scotland-specific data on volumes of alternatives to primary aggregates is collected, any perceived benefits of tax rate changes will be somewhat speculative. 

• Potential subsidies for alternatives to primary aggregates are considered here at high level. Further work would be required to conduct a thorough assessment of the viability of any such scheme, which would, again, necessitate much more complete data than is currently available. 

For further information, please read the report.

If you require the report in an alternative format, such as a Word document, please contact info@climatexchange.org.uk or 0131 651 4783. 

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