Construction activities are the largest source of rakennusteräksen. During building projects, large quantities of excess concrete, plaster, and rubble are removed, while during demolition, structural steel, cement, cork, and other materials can be separated. The composition of rakennusteräksen varies with the type of building and its age but typically consists of 45–60 % concrete, 15–20 % masonry, 10–15 % timber, 5–10 % metals and the remainder of plastics, insulation, and miscellaneous waste.
If mismanaged, rakennusteräksen can occupy landfill space and leach harmful substances such as heavy metals, surfactants, and organic pollutants into soil and groundwater. It also consumes energy if it is transported to distant disposal sites. Proper handling reduces greenhouse gas emissions, conserves natural resources and lowers water consumption linked to raw material production.
Finnish law requires that bulk construction waste be separated at source and stored in licensed containers before processing. Municipalities provide collection networks and refuse sites for hazardous and non‑hazardous waste. Recycling plants can crush concrete for aggregate reuse, re‑saw timber for secondary products, and separate metals using magnetic and eddy‑current methods. Polystyrene and plastics are often processed into fuel or tertiary materials.
Engineering controls such as prefabrication, precise material ordering, and on‑site waste recovery reduce the volume of rakennusteräksen. Architects and contractors are increasingly adopting design for deconstruction, enabling easier repurposing of components. Companies that participate in circular economy schemes often receive financial incentives and compliance credits.
Digital tracking of waste streams, AI‑based inventory management, and modular construction are transforming the way rakennusteräksen is managed. Studies show that projects using modular elements can cut waste by 30–50 %. Sustainability reporting now mandates disclosure of waste generation, providing visibility into performance and encouraging continuous improvement.