Safe, Sustainable, and Swift Reconstruction of Ukraine

An innovative project dedicated to the sustainable reconstruction of Ukraine through the development of low-energy "Green Building Materials" technologies. By upcycling rubble generated during the russian invasion, we aim to transform debris into valuable construction materials while addressing the complex challenges posed by hazardous substances like asbestos and non-traditional concrete.
Project team:
Lead — Roman Puchko 
Project assistant — Alina Pavlenko
Communication — Natalie Shvets, Lucy Zelenko
Partners:
The University of Sheffield
Eco+Logic
Imperial College of Science,Technology and Medicine
C2CA Technology
National University of Water and Environmental Engineering
The Chancellor Masters and Scholars of the University of Oxford
University of Leeds
Lviv Polytechnic National University
Supported by:
Government of the United Kingdom
Years:
2024-2026
Project Inquiry
Imagine if we could take the debris from war-damaged buildings in Ukraine and transform it into new, sustainable concrete for reconstruction.

Consider starting with a case study, where we demonstrate how rubble can be turned into essential building materials for the future.

By successfully converting debris into circular concrete, this method could be applied across other affected regions, fostering a more sustainable and efficient rebuilding process. This initiative not only maximizes the reuse of materials but also helps reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and lay the groundwork for Ukraine's resilient recovery.
About
the Project
In our groundbreaking initiative, we are pioneering technologies to recycle concrete from debris into new, usable concrete for building purposes. By carefully analyzing the rubble with the help of British and Ukrainian universities, we aim to produce high-quality concrete, concrete paste suitable for construction, marking a significant innovation in the field.
Traditionally, recycled concrete has been repurposed for road building, but our approach transforms it into raw materials for structural use, ensuring that it meets the necessary standards for rebuilding efforts across the country.

Our team employs advanced methods to assess and process various materials found in the debris. We've identified key components like concrete, metal tiles, and metal sheets, all of which have a recycling potential. These materials are crucial for sustainable reconstruction, offering a way to rebuild while minimizing environmental impact.
However, some materials, such as slate, must be entirely disposed of due to the presence of hazardous substances like asbestos, which poses significant health risks.
Through this project, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of rebuilding but also laying the foundation for a circular economy in Ukraine. By turning rubble into resources, we aim to create a model for sustainable recovery that can be replicated in other affected regions.
Project Impact
Our approach to recycling debris into circular concrete is revolutionizing reconstruction in Ukraine. By transforming rubble into sustainable building materials with the highest possible added value, we support more economical, sustainable, and resource-efficient rebuilding efforts.

This method is particularly valuable in areas with limited access to virgin fossil resources and new construction materials, reducing waste and environmental impact while enhancing Ukraine's capacity for sustainable and solid recovery.