Council opens conversation on concrete and brick recycling opportunities

Bega Valley Shire Council is inviting experienced contractors to help shape the future of waste brick and concrete recycling, with an Expression of Interest (EOI) set to open 4 June.

The call-out marks an early step in exploring how the council might work more closely with industry to turn a current challenge into a smart, sustainable opportunity.

“Council has managed brick and concrete recycling on a limited, as-needed basis for a few years now,” Waste Strategy Coordinator, Tim Cook said.

“This EOI invites experienced contractors to help us explore what’s possible and whether it’s a service we manage or deliver in partnership.”

Since 2019, the council has been stockpiling brick and concrete waste at the Eden Waste and Recycling Centre, diverting about 9000 cubic metres of resources from landfill.

“However, with more than 6000 cubic metres still unprocessed and limited capacity to manage it, it’s clear we need to explore more effective and sustainable solutions,” Cook said.

“Recycling concrete and brick products is smart business practice that offers great environmental outcomes. It reduces landfill space, lowers transport costs, and slashes emissions tied to extracting and producing new materials.

“Industry research shows that recycling concrete can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 65 per cent compared to producing new aggregate. It’s already widely used in road base, drainage fill and even new concrete, proving its value as a versatile resource.”

Cook said the EOI is not about entering into a tender agreement just yet; it’s about understanding how the market might help improve efficiency, scale and impact.

“We’re looking for ideas, insights and honest feedback from contractors with more experience than us in this field,” he said.

“Much like the organics EOI we ran in 2021, the results of this process will help guide future strategy and investment in an emerging industry.”

The EOI will be available via the council’s Vendor Panel procurement portal on Wednesday, 4 June, closing on Friday 18 July.

For more information, visit: www.begavalley.nsw.gov.au