Carissa Ten Tije

Department: Man and Activity
Website: www.carissatentije.nl

BOTTOM ASH

What: What happens to our waste when it leaves our homes? This question led to a study into the possibilities of using bottom ash as a resource.

Why: Bottom ash is the non-combustible residue after household waste is burned in waste-to-energy-plants. In the Netherlands one person’s household waste produces an average of 57,5 kg of bottom ash per year. Can this leftover be reused in useful quality products?

How: This extensive investigation into the value of bottom ash documented both current applications of the material and possible new uses. These include a terrazzo-like stone material and wood stain. Such applications show that value can be regained from such a grey and lifeless matter as bottom ash.

“Ugly waste residues can be turned into something beautiful”