AWARD YEAR
2023
CATEGORY
Community
GOALS
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
KEYWORDS
recycling, Landscape Architecture, eco-architecture, reuse wind turbine blade
COUNTRY
Poland
DESIGNED BY
ANMET & GP Renewables
WEBSITE
https://www.compositesworld.com/news/anmet-installs-first-recycled-wind-turbine-blade-based-pedestrian-bridge
Composite wind turbine footbridges
Repurpose decommissioned composite wind turbine blades for infrastructure and consumer products.
How does it work?
ANMET (composite recycling specialists) together with GP Renewables, have created an innovative solution in architecture and public space of giving a second life to wind blades.
Wind blades, not only decorate landscape architecture but also these specific items are created as a result of 90% recycled products, generating a modern, functional, and cheaper solution.
Why is it needed?
Currently, there is a global problem of waste management, when it comes to the disintegration of wind blades. On average, windmills operate for around 20-30 years and it is estimated that by 2023, approximately 14,000 used turbines will need to be dismantled.
Even though the current methods of burying, grinding, or burning composites are the most economical they require significant energy input. Additionally, many elements of wind power plants consist primarily of heavy metals that the recycling process is already known however, the central challenge here lies in the recycling of composites, including glass fibers. With that said, this project aims to repurpose these wind blades by integrating them in architecture, decorating urban and private spaces.
How does it improve life?
After almost three decades, wind power plants are inoperable and the need for an efficient recycling system is a problem to consider.
This project, not only it is a solution to the problem of what to do with decommissioned turbine blades, but it also inspires individuals and big cooperations on how it is possible to embrace a sustainable perspective towards big and complex productions and ultimately create resourceful recycling systems.