The Channel Tunnel Rail Link and Terminal 5 at Heathrow, UK are just two examples of major construction projects that are currently utilising large quantities of recycled and secondary aggregates. However, until recently one of the major barriers to the wider use of these materials has been the lack of a comprehensive, independent source of information upon which buyers can base procurement decisions and suppliers can use as a shop window to promote the availability of products.

This is about to change thanks to the launch of AggRegain, a new free information service, developed by WRAP. AggRegain consists of a website

http://www.aggregain.org.uk

and a telephone helpline.

The website contains more than 50 detailed case studies, technical notes to assist in the specification of recycled and secondary aggregates and a directory of over 250 suppliers.

The case studies clearly demonstrate that recycled and secondary aggregates are fit for purpose for a wide range of applications. They also illustrate the cost savings that can be achieved when these materials are used in place of primary aggregates.

About WRAP
WRAP (The Waste and Resources Action Programme) was established in 2001 as part of the UK government's waste strategy 2000 to promote sustainable waste management. WRAP's particular focus is creating stable and efficient markets for recycled materials and products.

WRAP and Aggregates
In April 2002, WRAP launched a new Aggregates Programme, funded by the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund, that aims to reduce demand in England for primary materials by encouraging the use of aggregates from recycled and secondary resources. The AggRegain information service forms an integral part of WRAP's approach to achieving a significant increase in the use of recycled and secondary aggregates in England.