Space Matrix’s collaboration with Saahas Zero Waste (SZW) marks the beginning of a journey towards sustainable construction waste management. The initiative, named Re:Source, seeks to integrate circular economy principles into the handling of construction and demolition (C&D) waste in India.
India contributes significantly to global construction waste, accounting for 35% to 40% of the total, yet only about 1% of these materials are recycled, while the rest are disposed of in landfills. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable practices, Space Matrix is committed to addressing this challenge through its Re:Source framework.
By partnering with SZW, Space Matrix aims to redirect construction waste back to construction sites, thereby minimizing waste generation and promoting recycling and reuse. This initiative underscores Space Matrix’s dedication to sustainability and its proactive approach to environmental stewardship in the construction industry. Through Re:Source, Space Matrix is set to make a meaningful impact on reducing waste and fostering a circular economy in India’s construction sector.
The focus is to ensure minimal processing and convert the waste into the same or other types of construction materials. Considering that construction materials cost 50% to 60% of a project’s budget, this recycling can also boost cost-effectiveness and positively impact the environment. The partnership with SZW marks a beginning in this direction.
Speaking about this novel project which can catalyse the waste management efforts in the C&D sector in India, Akshay Lakhanpal, CEO India, Space Matrix, said, “Despite existing policy frameworks like the Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016, responsible disposal remains a daunting challenge in India. Through our collaboration with SWMPL, we have taken proactive steps to lead this change. We discussed the project’s objective and details with our clients, and they were completely onboard to work with us to reduce the environmental impact of the construction waste and comply with the regulations. Our inaugural pilot project under the Re:Source initiative has already delivered positive outcomes, showcasing the feasibility and environmental benefits of integrating circular economy principles into C&D waste management. Moving forward, we aspire to replicate and scale these successes across our future projects, catalysing industry-wide change on a national scale.”
Sharing details about the project, and the potential of environmental conservation, Shobha Raghavan, COO Saahas Zero Waste, said, “Since 2013, we’ve partnered with corporates, housing societies, government agencies, and stakeholders to realize a zero-waste, circular economy. Viewed in the context of India’s overall C&D waste, these circular economy principles can significantly address environmental concerns and contribute to the fight against climate change. Our partnership with Space Matrix is going to be a major step forward in this direction, and we hope to continue making the right impact through Project Re:Source.”
SZW, an ISO-certified social enterprise offering integrated waste management services across major Indian cities, has already executed a pilot project under Re:Source at one of Space Matrix’s brownfield Fit-out projects in Bengaluru. The initiative, spanning 19,570 sq-ft, generated over 43 tonnes of waste between August and November 2023. The pilot project showcased effective recycling and reuse methodologies across diverse waste streams, resulting in a 48% reduction in landfill waste. An important lesson learned from the pilot project underscores the potential to enhance recyclability by emphasising source segregation practices and ensuring ample space for storing diverse waste streams on-site.
