Construction often results in the accumulation of a variety of wastes, including those generated when old buildings are demolished. This problem is being discussed in Moldova, with an online discussion by the American Chamber of Commerce of Moldova (AmCham Moldova).
Companies are showing interest in sorting and recycling construction waste and reusing it, as up to 95 per cent of such waste can be recycled. The interest is due to both environmental and economic aspects.
Mila Malairau, AmCham’s executive director, notes that construction waste management is also an important challenge for European Union countries, where it accounts for a significant proportion of waste generated. This is a major burden on the environment and the economy. Recycling such waste requires special attention and community involvement.
Tatiana Tsugui from the public association “Pro mediu” emphasises that the regulation of this problem should lie with the public administration. It is necessary to provide places for separate collection of waste, and only then the private sector can be involved in recycling. In order to stimulate law and order in this area, a ban on the use of common dumps should be introduced and the penalties for violations should be toughened.
Vasile Efros, a representative of the Chisinau Mayor’s Office, reports that a plot of land has been allocated for construction waste in the capital city, but this land requires reclamation before it can be used.
Data from EU member states show that most construction waste is made up of materials of mineral origin, such as concrete and sand. Therefore, the recycling of this waste does not require large investments, but contributes to the sustainable development of the construction industry.
Anna Gavrilenco, manager of raw materials and alternative fuels management at Lafarge Moldova, notes that in EU countries, producers have extended responsibility for waste management, which incentivises proper waste management and recycling. This could be a good example for Moldova.