Promotion of resource-saving and climate-friendly concrete in Baden-Wuerttemberg

In recent years, the production of concrete with recycled aggregates (RAC) has established itself as a promising option to reduce the consumption of primary resources in the production of concrete. Nevertheless, processed construction and demolition wastes are rarely used as aggregates in concrete [1]. There are various reasons. In addition to the recycling paths that are easier to implement from a technological and regulatory point of view, the varying regional degrees of availability and higher expenditures are impediments on the part of the concrete producers. To change this, the Baden-Wuerttemberg Ministry of the Environment has provided a funding scheme by means of the “administrative provision on resource-saving and climate-friendly concrete in building construction (VwV R-Beton)” in 2023, aiming at increasing the use of concrete with recycled aggregates in the south-west region. Apart from financial subsidies for extended initial testing that is required for the first production of concrete using recycled aggregates, subsidies are granted for part of the purchase costs of recycled or wet-classified aggregates. The funding scheme was prolonged in 2025, with adjusting the funding rates. The use of low-clinker cement was also stipulated as an applicable amendment. In addition to the manufacturers of ready-mixed concrete, the producers of precast concrete elements can get subsidies now as well.

The first phase of the funding program was scientifically monitored by KIT-IMB/MPA/CMM. In this regard, the manufacturers of ready-mixed concrete were supported in extended initial testing. Furthermore, sampling and analysis of the used aggregates were conducted.