Hanoi is implementing a series of infrastructure projects, causing the amount of construction waste to grow larger and larger. Although the potential for recycling construction waste into resources is very large, this problem will only truly have a solution when the "bottlenecks" in mechanisms, norms and consumption markets are removed.
Statistics show that Hanoi is clearing ground for more than 1,400 traffic infrastructure and urban embellishment projects. According to representatives of the Hanoi Department of Natural Resources and Environment, the city generates about 3,000 - 3,400 tons of solid construction waste every day.
About 90% of these waste is inorganic material, with high viscosity and great recycling potential. However, most of the grinding technology in the area is still at a simple mechanical level, mainly using after-drilling products as ground leveling materials.
According to Mr. Bui Cong Nguyen - Deputy Director of Toan Cau Company, a unit specializing in treating and recycling solid construction waste - in response to the socialization policy of Hanoi City, the enterprise has invested in an imported production line from Europe with the goal of "transforming waste into resources".
The equipment meets environmental standards, reducing noise and dust. In particular, the system can be moved close to the project to grind concrete on site, thereby reducing transportation costs and pressure on landfills.
According to Mr. Nguyen Quang Hiep - Director of the Institute of Building Materials (Ministry of Construction), solid construction waste is an important secondary resource. Concrete, bricks, stones... after recycling can be used as a base material for concrete, filling materials, and roadbeds.
However, the recycling rate of construction waste in Vietnam in general and Hanoi in particular is still low. "The main reasons are that construction waste has not been classified at source; collection and recycling infrastructure is still lacking; the system of norms and technical guidance is not complete. In addition, the market for recycled materials is still limited, causing businesses not to boldly invest," Mr. Hiep pointed out.
Agreeing with this view, Mr. Bui Cong Nguyen said that the major barrier currently is that the input waste source is unstable and not managed in a chain.
Due to cost pressure and limited awareness of some waste source owners, the situation of illegal dumping is still complicated. Investors and contractors are also still hesitant and not bold enough to bring recycled products into projects.
To recycle construction waste in Hanoi effectively, contributing to the development of the circular economy, construction experts believe that it is necessary to synchronously implement many solutions.
First of all, it is necessary to complete the policy of mandatory waste classification at source, and at the same time build a synchronous collection and transportation system to ensure a stable source of raw materials for recycling facilities.
In addition, there needs to be preferential investment policies, supporting businesses in terms of land, credit, taxes and technology to improve the quality of recycled products.
The State also needs to play a leading role in the market by stipulating appropriate ratios for the use of recycled materials in public investment projects.
Representatives of Toan Cau Company proposed that functional agencies soon issue reasonable unit prices for construction waste treatment services; strengthen control of waste transportation plans right from the demolition permit stage and increase penalties to limit and move towards ending the situation of illegal dumping.
Representatives of the Institute of Building Materials said that in the coming time, they will continue to coordinate with localities and businesses to complete scientific facilities and technical standards, thereby promoting the effective use of solid construction waste in the direction of green and sustainable development.
