3.4 Towards a circular economy

Where unavoidable waste materials are generated, we investigate options for reuse and recycling. We have defined a minimum recycling target rate of 70% at all of our project sites and continue to pursue our zero waste ambitions at a Group-wide level. Ultimately, we aspire to operate our business in a circular economic model, where waste is designed out of the system. We realise there is still a long way to go on our circular economy journey and are committed to meeting the challenge.

Group-wide recycling rate close to 90%

In 2023, the total waste generated by the Group’s operating activities was 75,711 tonnes (2022: 82,983 tonnes), with a recycling rate of 89% (2022: 94%). We see this generally as a positive development for the operations of NRC Group. We are still at a relatively high recycling rate, which means that our business model is largely circular. Yet, we are working to constantly reduce our impact in this area.

As is typical in the infrastructure and construction sector, the nature of waste materials generated by different projects and the recycling methods available at each project site are often different. Because of this and our different project-based activities, waste and recycling figures may vary significantly from year to year and between our countries of operation.

Waste and recycling rate

Re-using masses

I think it’s great to experience that our client rewards the sustainable solutions and initiatives we implement

Dennis Samuelsson
HSEQ expert in NRC Group Sweden

We build sustainable infrastructure, and how we do it matters. In the Lustån – Hedemora railway project, NRC Group Sweden reduced GHG emissions by 23%. The excavated surplus soils were re-used in a local project. This approach reduced the transport of materials significantly.

With the re-use and a more effective way of handling excavated materials, we reduced CO2 emissions by over 162 tonnes. The client awarded us a climate bonus for this reduction.