Clay brick plays an important role in the circular economy. A long and impressive service life of 150 years, coupled with durability, adaptability and recyclability mean that clay brick enables and supports the design of buildings along circular economy principles. Quite simply, it can be used again and again. This helps remove waste that’s already been created and prevents it from being used in landfill in its later life.
Clay bricks are made from 100% natural resources, enabling them to be reused and recycled, enhancing circularity within the construction sector. By understanding the lasting impact of our design choices, we can reduce the carbon footprint over a building’s entire lifetime.
Clay brick’s minimum active life span of 150 years sets it apart. However, it can last much longer, prolonging the expected life of a building. This will result in a lower carbon footprint for every year of use. Unlike clay-based materials, other non-clay building materials may well require complete replacement over a building’s lifespan which can lead to increased embodied and operational carbon emissions.
When constructed correctly with lime mortar, buildings constructed from clay brick can be demolished and reused again for new build or restoration projects. These clay bricks retain their strength, colour and aesthetic appeal, providing a valuable resource to imbue other buildings with exceptional character and timeless beauty.
Clay bricks can be easily recycled, diverting waste from landfills and reducing the environmental impact of construction. Clay bricks have the ability to be recycled as graded aggregates for use in sub-bases, hard-core and for concrete. Other applications include crushing into granules for use with composites and into brick dust for use in lime mortars and in brick tinting.
Ceangal House exemplifies circular principles by utilising 90% reclaimed materials and local elements to minimise its environmental impact. Reflecting the site's history, the design harnesses natural resources for light and heat, creating a comfortable and eco-friendly home.
Battersea Power Station's revival champions brick circularity. Over 1.75 million bespoke, traditionally-crafted clay bricks brought new life to the iconic landmark. Read more about the UK brick industry's innovative approach to sustainable restoration through the reuse of heritage materials.
Shrewsbury's Flaxmill Maltings embodies adaptive reuse. Built in 1797 for flax processing, it thrived as a maltings for a century. After closure in 1987, restoration efforts led by Historic England and partners transformed it into a thriving business and heritage center, showcasing the potential for historic buildings to find new life.