Recycling: A cornerstone of decarbonization

The extraction of natural resources is growing at an unbridled rate. So much so that the United Nations' International Resource Panel of experts, in its Global Resources Outlook 2024 report, calls for “urgent and concerted action” to slow the pace. If nothing is done, researchers estimate that this trend could increase by 60% by 2060, jeopardizing progress toward the sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015.

However, the energy transition heavily relies on certain metals and minerals that are expected to see a surge in demand over the next few years.

“This means it's essential to innovate and find new recycling technologies,” explains Boris S., Principal Project Manager at BBA. “While we need to introduce many new materials into our economy to sustain it, we also need to develop new technologies that will increase our capacity to reuse materials.”

Developing new recycling technologies is one of the most effective ways to massively decarbonize our economy. It can:

- Reduce a project's GHG emissions, as recycling is generally less energy-intensive than extraction
- Reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills
- Preserve biodiversity by limiting the destruction of natural habitats and the disruption of ecosystems
- Lower costs associated with extracting, refining and transporting materials
- Enhance independence and security in terms of natural resources by reducing our reliance on certain materials

“At a time when we’re acutely aware of our impact on the planet, the industrial world is beginning to ask: Can we continue to produce technologies that we don't yet know how to recycle?” adds Geoff Hall, National Sales Director at BBA. “Around the world, companies are pushing the limits of innovation to give new life to a wide range of waste materials. Finding solutions to make these ideas a reality is what makes engineering so exciting!”