Sand and gravel from riverbeds and beaches is in high demand as the need to create concrete for construction continues to increase. Sand from coastal areas is preferred for its coarse grit. According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, 27 billion tons of sand and gravel are used for construction each year, with that number set to double by 2060.
The decimation of sand from beaches and rivers has the potential to be environmentally detrimental to coasts. Scientists are now working to reduce the amount of raw materials used in creating concrete and other construction materials. One material being studied is plastic, which may be able to replace up to 10% of the sand used in concrete without affecting its integrity.
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