Recycling and Resource Recovery 

What is it and why do we need it?   

Boral is one of Australia’s leading recyclers of construction and demolition waste, processing more than 2 million tonnes of material every year. These recycled materials are re-used and repurposed to create new construction products—reducing the volume of material that is landfilled, reducing the need for virgin resources and supporting a circular economy. 

Why recycling is important to a growing city?

By recovering materials from waste, we help:

• Conserve natural resources by reducing the demand for new raw materials.
• Lower carbon emissions through sustainable practices.
• Divert waste from landfill, protecting valuable space.
• Save costs and energy for construction firms by reducing disposal fees and resource use.

What materials are recycled by Boral? 

Boral manages demolition and excavation waste such as concrete, sand, and brick—materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. These are sorted, washed, and blended before being turned into recycled, lower-carbon construction products ready to re-enter the building industry. 

What Is a Circular Economy? 

A circular economy is a smarter way of producing and consuming that reduces waste, conserves resources, and lowers carbon emissions. Instead of the traditional “take, make, use, and throw away” approach, a circular economy keeps materials in use for as long as possible by repairing, reusing, recycling, and redesigning products. 

Why It Matters 

This approach helps: 

• Protect natural resources by reducing the need for new raw materials. 

• Cut landfill waste, which is a growing challenge for cities. 

• Lower carbon emissions, supporting climate goals. 

Across Australia, the construction industry generates 26.8 million tonnes of waste every year. 

With the growing focus on circular economy practices, around 63% of this material is now recovered and reused in new projects. Governments and customers increasingly require recycled materials in roads, infrastructure, and building construction. 

How Boral Applies Circular Economy Principles 

Boral collects demolition and excavation waste—such as concrete, brick, sand, and steel—and processes it at local recycling centres. These materials are sorted, washed, and blended to create new, sustainable construction products, including: 

• Recycled aggregates 

• Road base 

• Reclaimed concrete, sand, and asphalt 

• Select fill and pipe bedding sand 

Recycled products help reduce waste and ease pressure on natural resources. However, they supplement rather than replace hard rock quarry materials, which will continue to be essential for meeting infrastructure needs through 2050 and beyond.