Crushing and screening waste concrete, brick and asphalt from construction and demolition sites can form recycled aggregates to be used in building.

The practice is good for keeping waste out of landfill sites and reducing the amount of resources used overall.

But as recycled aggregates that do not meet quality control keep being waste and have uncertain performance, contractors will be pleased to hear that Zero Waste Scotland has launched an online directory of reliable suppliers.

The Recycled Aggregate Supplier Directory aims to showcase best practice and instil confidence in buyers of recycled aggregate.

It lists recycled aggregate producers which operate to the aggregates Quality Protocol, providing their customers with confidence that the company can produce quality products.

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In addition, all suppliers on the directory have been independently inspected and assessed by TRL (Transport Research Laboratory), and are subject to regular reviews by Zero Waste Scotland to demonstrate their compliance with the requirements.

Iain Gulland of Zero Waste Scotland said: "The progress made by Scotland's construction industry to increase re-use and recycling is commendable. In 2010, it is estimated that the industry produced six million tonnes of waste, and that around 80% was recycled.

"Recycled aggregates are a major contributor to this total, providing savings to the industry on both disposal costs and aggregate procurement. However, it is essential that the quality of aggregate being produced and sold to customers meets industry specifications and its use complies with waste management regulations."

Representatives of key players including Graham Construction, Tarmac and SEPA welcomed the tool.

www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/aggregatesdirectory

(NE)