New trade association “Building Material Circulation Switzerland” founded
The merger of arv Baustoffrecycling Schweiz and FSKB Fachverband der Schweizerischen Kies- und Betonindustrie creates the new trade association ‘Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz’, which is committed to the future of the construction and recycling industry. With over 45,000 members and an organisation level of more than 80 percent, the association will promote the sustainable supply of mineral raw materials in Switzerland.
The merger of arv Baustoffrecycling Schweiz and FSKB Fachverband der Schweizerischen Kies- und Betonindustrie has been formalised. Around 400 members have created the new “Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz” association, which pools the strengths of the two industries. The aim is to expand expertise, anticipate future challenges and actively shape the future of the Swiss construction industry.
Unified representation of interests for the circular economy
“Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz” is the only industry organisation in the construction industry that represents the interests of all those involved in the circular economy. The association represents more than 1,000 Swiss gravel quarries, concrete plants and recycling centres. In cooperation with planning authorities, it will create framework conditions to ensure the sustainable supply of mineral raw and building materials to the construction industry and secure around 100,000 jobs in the construction industry.
Focus on a sustainable circular economy
The association is committed to the environmentally friendly utilisation of mineral raw materials, particularly in view of the increasing scarcity of resources. The aim is to keep building materials in circulation and to promote innovative technologies and methods for the extraction and processing of recycled building materials. Cooperation with universities and research institutes is being intensified in order to create a centre of excellence for the sustainable construction industry.
Securing resources and ecological integration
A central concern of “Building Material Cycle Switzerland” is the security of supply of mineral raw materials and the professional disposal of deconstruction materials. In view of increasingly scarce land and stricter protection regulations, the association will work to ensure that construction sites continue to be supplied with high-quality building materials. In addition, the ecological integration of gravel pits as a habitat for flora and fauna will be promoted by ensuring high-quality recultivation and renaturalisation of the areas once extraction is complete.
Broad-based board and expertise
Lionel Lathion, President of the Lathion Group SA, becomes the first President of “Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz”. He will be supported by Vice-Presidents Christoph Duijts, CEO of KIBAG, and Stefan Eberhard, owner of stefan eberhard ag. The 14-member board covers a broad spectrum of expertise and regions and will intensify cooperation with the cantonal associations. The new office brings together the expertise and experience of 19 employees from various fields to serve as a competent point of contact for politicians and authorities.