The main objective of our project was to provide high quality and flexible learning opportunities for those at initial career stages and those continuing in their careers in professions in the construction and related sectors, with a focus on improving construction waste management through technology integration. The aim was to improve the professional skills of new entrants to these professions and to close the gap in access to training for those already working in these professions. Also, the project: - Provided training materials for architecture, construction, technology faculties, vocational institutions, environmental groups, and governments. - Fostered experience exchange through increased cooperation among professionals in construction, engineering, and recycling. - Helped governments turn construction waste into economic value via technology. - Encouraged construction professionals to develop innovative, best-practice methods. - Supported social efforts against global inflation by reducing resource use. - Contributed to the European Green Deal target of a 55% emission reduction by 2030. - Promoted sustainable, energy-saving construction in line with the UN Sustainable Cities goal by reducing pollution.
According to data from the European Commission, construction and demolition waste accounts for one-third of total waste in the EU, representing the largest waste stream. Around 30% of materials delivered to a typical construction site end up as waste. Poland is one of eight EU countries where the recycling rate remains below 40%. The applicant company ALVE, has confirmed this situation. The company has observed that a significant amount of waste is generated due to the absence of waste management plans and the underutilisation of technological solutions at its construction sites. Emerging technologies offer new opportunities to reduce construction waste (Reduce), reuse materials (Reuse), recycle them more efficiently (Recycle), and bring them back into the economy (Rebuy). At this point, the project has been developed to meet the need for training, networking, and experience sharing for both newcomers to the sector and professionals. In this regard, the project has been divided into four modules: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rebuy. An educational platform and a best practices guide have been developed within each module to facilitate the integration of new technologies (BIM, AI, robotics, IOT and 3D print) into waste management.