It was with great pleasure that I accepted the invitation to address the workshop for the presentation of an innovative robotic method for the separation of Construction and Demolition Waste, in the framework of the research project "DEFEAT - Development of an innovative insulating fireproof building façade from Construction and Demolition Waste".
The DEFEAT project is co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Republic of Cyprus, through the RESTART 2016-2020 Programme of the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation. DEFEAT is fully aligned with the European Union's objective to promote the separate collection, sorting and reuse of construction, excavation and demolition waste and, by extension, to minimise landfill.
The Project, which is being implemented by Frederick University in collaboration with the Department of Environment of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, the Cyprus Federation of Building Contractors' Associations and several other private bodies, aims to develop a composite material from construction and demolition waste. This material will be fire resistant, characterized by low thermal conductivity and suitable mechanical and refractory properties and can be used in the façade of either existing or new buildings, with obvious benefits and advantages in terms of both fire safety and energy efficiency.
Within the framework of the Programme, an innovative robotic method for the separation of construction and demolition waste was developed through a detailed experimental study and on a pilot scale. Today, through presentations by renowned speakers, we will have the opportunity to learn about the methodological approach applied for the design and implementation of this method and how it works.
Construction and demolition waste represents about one third of the approximately three billion tonnes of waste generated annually by economic activities and households in the European Union. For this reason, the European Commission has made it a priority to promote the circular management of such waste in the Member States of the Union.
In Cyprus, the ambitious European targets for increasing source separation, recycling and reuse of recycled materials have been adopted. Especially for construction and demolition waste, the target is to recycle at least 70% of this waste generated.
As part of the prevention, reduction and proper management of construction and demolition waste, as well as limiting its uncontrolled disposal in fields, streams or landfills, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, through the Department of Environment, has proceeded with the preparation of the Waste Regulations 2023, which are expected to be approved by the House of Representatives soon.
At the same time, our Ministry is encouraging the private sector to establish Construction and Demolition Waste Management Facilities, with the result that the number of such facilities has increased sharply from two in 2016 to 11 today.
The establishment of a Technical Committee to promote the use of recyclable materials resulting from the treatment of waste from excavation, construction and demolition is also considered important, with a view to their more efficient and effective use. At this stage the 2nd Progress Report on the implementation of the Action Plan prepared by the Commission has been prepared. Through the Action Plan, among other things, the amendment of the technical specifications of government projects is being promoted, in order to introduce provisions for the use of recycled materials in them, which will be a very important development.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment supports and welcomes actions such as the present one, which contribute to the implementation of its objectives to promote the principles of circular economy and sustainable development. The constructive synergy of the academic community, the private sector and government agencies ensures the successful implementation of these actions for the benefit of society and the natural environment of our country.
I therefore warmly congratulate all those involved in this innovative action and wish them every success in conducting today's workshop and in completing the Programme.
(ΕΠ/IK)
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