Recticel has commissioned a PIR insulation recycling plant in Wevelgem, Belgium, designed to process up to 4,000 tonnes per year of post‑industrial PIR board offcuts and scrap into recycled polyol feedstock. The recovered polyol, used to manufacture new PIR boards, is expected to cut CO₂ emissions by 30–50% compared with virgin polyol, while reducing primary raw material demand. Boards incorporating the recycled content will be supplied from all Recticel plants, including UK facilities, giving specifiers a lower‑carbon option without changing product families.

Screencore has launched the Orbiter 206R trommel, a 31‑tonne unit with a 7m³ hopper, 1,200mm heavy belt, and variable feed angle designed to maintain unencumbered material flow. The machine uses independent, radio‑controlled belt speed controls and a large PLC interface with full‑auto functionality, plus a Cat engine on 4m tracks with two‑speed drive and remote control for site mobility. A 180° radial fines conveyor with radio remote and auto‑functionality targets higher stockpile volumes and reduced loader rehandling on constrained sites.

Government plans to nationalise British Steel aim to preserve domestic production of structural sections, plate and rail steel used in major UK infrastructure, but raise questions over long‑term subsidy levels and exposure of public finances. Civil contractors reliant on BS EN 10025 and BS EN 10210 compliant sections could see short‑term supply stability, yet face potential cost volatility if state ownership drives changes in pricing, energy cost pass‑through or decarbonisation investment. The move also concentrates risk for large public works pipelines such as HS2, road bridges and offshore wind foundations.