The final RECONMATIC Open Day in China brought together stakeholders from across Europe and China to showcase innovative digital and automated solutions for construction and demolition waste management. From standardised data systems and digital twins to AI-powered waste treatment, the event highlighted how cross-border collaboration is driving the transition towards a circular and low-carbon built environment.

Sand appears abundant but is facing global shortages, driven mainly by construction and concrete. The RECONMATIC project helps address this by improving demolition waste quality through automated sorting, enabling recycled aggregates to replace part of natural sand. To scale adoption, the industry needs clearer standards, transparent regulation, and a stronger circular economy.

The forum was organized by the China Building Materials Federation and drew nearly 300 government officials, experts, and business representatives from countries including China, the UK, Germany, Canada, Japan and France. Attendees shared insights on advanced carbon reduction strategies, technical pathways, and practical achievements, and had the opportunity to visit China’s carbon capture demonstration projects.