Turning Waste into Opportunity: The Power of Surplus Soil Reuse in UK Construction
The construction industry in the UK generates millions of tonnes of surplus soil every year. Traditionally, much of this valuable resource ends up in landfill – costing money, increasing carbon emissions, and wasting a massive opportunity.
Why Surplus Soil Matters
The UK construction sector produces around 55 million tonnes of excavation waste annually – with soil making up the majority (UK Government, DEFRA, 2022). Of this, over 13 million tonnes still ends up in landfill every year (Environment Agency, 2021). Every truckload sent to landfill is a missed chance to cut costs and carbon. With landfill tax currently at £102.10 per tonne (HMRC, 2024), the financial incentive to find better solutions has never been higher.
Circular Construction: The Smart Solution
Circular construction means keeping valuable materials in use, not just extracting and dumping. For soil, this means reusing excavated material on other sites, reducing waste, transport emissions, and the need for virgin materials. It’s a win for the planet and the bottom line. Reuse and recycling of excavation waste could reduce the construction sector’s CO₂ emissions by up to 5 million tonnes annually (Green Alliance, 2023).
Amet Contracting Group: Leading on Sustainable Earthworks
At Amet Contracting Group, we’re proud to be at the forefront of sustainable earthworks in the UK. Our team is committed to reducing waste and supporting the circular economy. Here’s how we do it:
- Material Testing: We thoroughly assess surplus soils for reuse suitability, ensuring compliance with UK regulations.
- Material Exchange: Utilising our extensive network of contacts, we connect with other projects to give surplus soils (and other materials) a second life.
- Sustainability Focus: Every load we divert from landfill saves money, reduces carbon emissions, and helps build a greener future for UK construction.
Why Choose Amet?
Managing surplus soil sustainably isn’t just about good intentions – it’s about expertise, compliance, and connections. That’s where Amet Contracting Group comes in.
- We handle compliance: Our team navigates all UK regulations, waste codes, and environmental standards, saving you hassle and risk.
- We maximise value: If it cannot be reused onsite, then through our network, we find the best reuse options for your surplus soil – minimising disposal costs and carbon footprint.
- We deliver results: From testing and logistics to final placement, Amet manages the entire process, so you can focus on your core project.
Ready to make your next project greener and more cost-effective? Let Amet take the hassle out of surplus soil management – get in touch today!