Turning Demolition Debris into Design: Urban Mining and Eco-Terr® Terrazzo Tiles

What Is Urban Mining?

Every time a city skyline evolves, old structures come crashing down, leaving behind mountains of concrete, metal, and rubble. In 2018 alone, the United States generated over 600 million tons of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, nearly 30 percent of the nation’s total waste stream. Traditionally, this rubble has ended up in landfills, contributing to pollution and resource loss.

Today, however, a growing movement in sustainable architecture is changing that trajectory. Urban mining treats post-demolition debris as a valuable raw material source. Instead of extracting virgin resources, manufacturers and architects are harvesting concrete, brick, stone, and steel directly from demolished buildings to produce sustainable construction materials. This circular economy approach not only reduces landfill waste, it cuts carbon emissions by minimizing new material extraction and manufacturing.

Circular Innovation in Action: Eco-Terr® Urban Fossil Ash Grey

One standout example of urban mining in design is Eco-Terr® Urban Fossil Ash Grey, a terrazzo tile developed by CoveringsETC. Recently named Hard Flooring Winner in the 2025 Metropolis Planet Positive Awards, this product proves that sustainability and aesthetics can go hand in hand.

Eco-Terr Urban Fossil Ash Grey is engineered from recycled demolition debris and repurposed stone aggregate, offering a refined industrial finish while diverting materials from landfills. By reintroducing waste materials into long-lasting surface design, Eco-Terr helps close the loop on construction waste.

High-Performance Terrazzo With Environmental Benefits

Despite its recycled origins, Eco-Terr does not compromise on performance. Key features include:

• Zero VOCs (resin-free and epoxy-free)
• PFAS-free formulation
• Durable and hygienic (stain, frost, and chemical resistant)
• Multiple finishes: Honed, Riverwash, and Microlinen
• Flexible application: flooring, walls, facades, countertops, furniture, outdoor terraces

These qualities make it ideal for commercial interiors, public spaces, exterior cladding, and wellness-focused environments. The product also supports Fitwel® and WELL™ strategies, contributing to healthy building frameworks through improved indoor air quality and sustainable procurement alignment.

Reducing Embodied Carbon Through Reuse

Urban mining delivers measurable environmental benefits. By substituting reclaimed building materials for virgin stone or concrete, Eco-Terr can significantly reduce embodied carbon, by up to 80 percent compared to traditional surfaces.

Every square foot of Eco-Terr represents diverted waste and avoided emissions, making it a smart choice for low-carbon architecture, green building certifications, and LEED® aligned projects.

Recognized by Industry Leaders

The 2025 Planet Positive Award from Metropolis Magazine celebrates innovation in sustainable design. Eco-Terr Urban Fossil Ash Grey stands out not only for its circular material sourcing, but for its role in reimagining the future of surface materials. It is more than terrazzo. It is a blueprint for how to design with what the city leaves behind.

Ready to Specify Circular Terrazzo?

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