What is one advantage of using recycled aggregates in construction?

Using recycled aggregates in construction offers the significant advantage of conserving natural resources. This means that materials from the natural environment, such as sand, gravel, and stone, are preserved since less new material needs to be extracted and processed. By reutilizing materials that would typically be considered waste, the construction industry can significantly reduce its environmental footprint and move towards more sustainable practices.

The production of recycled aggregates usually involves processing materials like concrete and asphalt from demolished structures, which helps divert waste from landfills and minimizes the ecological impact associated with quarrying and mining for virgin materials. As a result, not only does this approach support sustainability efforts, but it also contributes to more efficient waste management in urban development.

The other options present scenarios that do not accurately reflect the benefits of recycled aggregates. For instance, they are typically less expensive than their natural counterparts, and while they might require some specific handling procedures due to variations in material properties, they do not inherently necessitate more complex procedures. Furthermore, when properly used, recycled aggregates can achieve stable subgrades that are as effective as those made with virgin materials.