In the context of the sustainability requirements imposed at the European level, an increasing number of urban projects in Romania are integrating recyclable materials into their structures.

According to a recent report by the European Commission on the circular economy in construction (2024), Romania recorded an 18% increase in the use of recycled materials in projects financed through public funds.

The most commonly used recycled materials include reclaimed concrete from demolitions, treated wood, and plastic composites. A relevant example is the urban rehabilitation project in Bucharest’s Sector 6, where approximately 22% of the materials used came from recycled sources, according to data published by the Bucharest City Hall.

The Ministry of the Environment promotes the use of such materials through good practice guidelines, while the Romanian Constructors’ Association emphasizes that implementing clear standards could double the recycling rate within the next five years. Moreover, the new technical regulations currently under public consultation stipulate the mandatory use of recyclable materials in public projects valued at over €5 million.

(Photo: Freepik)