The importance of construction materials sourced from the sea is highlighted in a new sustainability report from the British Marine Aggregate Producers Association (BMAPA). The BMAPA publication sets out the latest sustainable development data (2020/21) for the marine aggregates industry across seven priority areas including resource use, climate change and energy, and the natural environment.

More than 20 million tonnes of sand and gravel were sourced from the seabed in 2021, with 14.3 million tonnes supplied to British construction for infrastructure, public and private buildings, and housing. Marine aggregates contribute more than 20 per cent of the total sand and gravel needed for construction in England and Wales, provide one third of primary aggregate demand in the South East and 50 per cent of all the primary aggregate used in central London. A further 1.3 million tonnes were used for beach replenishment at locations along the south and east coast of England in 2021, and 4.3 million tonnes of British marine aggregates were delivered to Europe (France, Belgium and the Netherlands) for use in construction.

Mark Russell, the MPA’s Executive Director for Planning, Mineral Resources & BMAPA said: “At a time when there is spatial pressure arising from new off-shore activities such as renewable energy developments, coupled with the growing importance of marine protected areas and nature recovery more generally, it is more important than ever that the marine aggregates industry is able to demonstrate its sustainability credentials alongside its longstanding commitment to responsible operation.

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