STRABAG Champions Building Material Recycling in Neuss Port Project
STRABAG AG is making significant strides in sustainable construction with the development of a new value stream management (WSM) site in the port of Neuss, North Rhine-Westphalia. This flagship project is aimed at advancing the systematic recycling of mineral building materials, particularly soil and construction waste mixtures. The innovative site, which is part of STRABAG’s commitment to resource-conserving construction, will play a central role in transforming the regional construction industry by adopting urban mining practices that recycle materials for reuse.
One of the standout features of this project is its location. The WSM site is strategically positioned with trimodal connections—via port, road, and rail. These optimal logistical conditions provide significant advantages for the establishment of sustainable value streams for the construction industry. In particular, the site’s direct connection to shipping traffic on the Rhine enhances material handling options, making it easier to transport resources efficiently and reduce the environmental impact of logistics.
Georg Lehde, Commercial Director of STRABAG in North Rhine-Westphalia, highlighted the environmental benefits of this location, noting, “The trimodal connection relieves the local road network and thus significantly reduces CO₂ emissions, which is an invaluable advantage, especially in a region with intensive construction activity such as North Rhine-Westphalia.” The strategic positioning of the site ensures that construction materials can be transported more sustainably, alleviating pressure on the local infrastructure and contributing to lower carbon emissions in the region.
The project was officially approved in September 2024, and construction work began in early 2025. STRABAG plans to have the new WSM site operational by summer 2025. The facility is expected to process up to 250,000 tonnes of mineral construction and raw materials annually, making a substantial impact on the regional construction market.
Sustainability is a core element of this initiative, and STRABAG is taking a comprehensive approach to resource conservation throughout the entire project lifecycle. During the construction phase, the company is implementing strategies that will be certified by the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB), ensuring that the site meets high sustainability standards. One key initiative involves the use of low-temperature asphalt in the construction process, which reduces energy consumption and emissions compared to traditional methods. Additionally, STRABAG plans to use electric and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)-powered machinery, further minimizing the environmental impact of the construction work.
The company is also implementing an energy management system that will monitor and optimize energy consumption throughout the operations of the WSM site. This system will be crucial for ensuring that the facility operates in the most energy-efficient manner possible, contributing to both resource conservation and CO₂ reduction.
Once fully operational, the WSM site will process a wide range of materials. These will include soil, which will be used for backfilling measures, and construction waste, which will undergo a series of processing steps to turn it into high-quality recycling material. A crusher will reduce the waste to a uniform grain size, and the material will undergo chemical analysis to ensure its suitability for reuse. The recycled material will be used for road substructures and other infrastructure applications, reducing the need for new raw materials and promoting a circular economy.
The Tauhei Solar Park project highlights the growing commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency in North Rhine-Westphalia, a region characterized by urban growth and large infrastructure projects. By adopting these sustainable practices, STRABAG is not only contributing to environmental preservation but also setting an example for the construction industry on how circular economies can be successfully integrated into large-scale projects.
STRABAG AG is known for its expertise in the construction industry, having provided innovative, high-quality solutions for various sectors, from transportation infrastructure to building materials and demolition services. The company’s lifecycle-oriented approach ensures that it integrates sustainability, digitalization, and innovation throughout all its projects. By focusing on recycling and reuse, STRABAG is helping to close the loop on construction waste and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in the construction industry.
The WSM site in Neuss is a testament to STRABAG’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable construction. As a leader in the field, the company’s focus on circular economy principles and resource efficiency sets a high standard for the rest of the industry. The successful implementation of this project will not only benefit STRABAG but also provide a model for future developments that prioritize environmental responsibility and innovation.
