High-Capacity Reclaimers and Advanced Equipment
The company's waste recycler, which is said to be the only one of its kind in Ireland, features two high-capacity reclaimers, large grey water stirring tanks, and an advanced filter press, enabling RTU to reclaim over 50m³ of fresh concrete and washings per hour.
Significant Aggregate Reclamation and Environmental Impact
The new recycler has capacity to reclaim about 7,200 tonnes of aggregate for reuse per year - equivalent to the weight of nearly 600 double decker buses.
Official Launch and Industry Recognition
The system was officially opened by the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, in front of key customers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders.
RTU’s Commitment to Sustainable Concrete Production
Alan Sproule, managing director at RTU, said: "This investment not only represents our commitment to leading the industry in sustainable concrete production but also allows us to futureproof operations and safeguard local jobs.
"We're proud to adopt technology that sets a new benchmark for the industry, reducing waste and conserving resources on a scale that few others in Northern Ireland can match."
Government Support for Circular Economy Initiatives
Minister Andrew Muir added: "I was pleased to officially open RTU's pioneering waste recycling system. I was impressed to learn how this innovation will use resources more efficiently and reduce the amount of waste in the manufacturing process.
"Managing our waste effectively is a key priority for my department and RTU's technology demonstrates how industry can help in building a low carbon, circular economy.
Strategic Investments Supporting Growth and Sustainability
The waste recycler forms part of a wider programme of strategic investment at RTU. The company operates a fleet of 34 lorries and routinely upgrades four-to-five mixer trucks annually, at an investment of approximately £170,000 per vehicle.
Over the past three years, RTU has also commissioned a new batching plant, built an on-site maintenance shed for vehicle servicing and installed solar panels to support its environmental goals, representing a combined investment of about £1m.