Is the world running out of sand? It’s a question that has been asked for years, as the demand for sand continues to increase. Every year, 50 billion metric tons of sand are consumed around the world. That’s the equivalent of 1.3 metric tons for every person on the planet.
So when will the world run out of sand? The answer is complicated. While it’s true that the demand for sand is high, there is still an abundant supply of sand on Earth. However, some regions are running out faster than others, like Vietnam which is facing crippling shortages right now.
Due to unsustainable practices, such as illegal mining and beachfront developments, we are depleting our sand reserves at an alarming rate.
If the world continues to consume sand at the current rate, it is estimated that we will run out of sand within the next 100 years. That might seem like a long time, but it’s a sobering reality when you consider how essential sand is to our way of life.
What Happens If We Run Out Of Sand?
For starters, the construction industry would grind to a halt. Without sand, we wouldn’t be able to make concrete or build houses, roads, or bridges.
The impact would be felt across the world economy, as the construction industry is a major contributor to GDP. In addition, our cities would become much more vulnerable to flooding without sand to act as a natural barrier.
On a global scale, the consequences of running out of sand would be dire. With the world’s population expected to top 9 billion by 2050, we need to find ways to use sand more efficiently and sustainably. If we don’t, the next generation may find themselves living in a very different world.
Is There a Way to Conserve Sand?
Sand is a key ingredient in concrete, asphalt, and glass, and it’s also used for land reclamation, beach renourishment, and fracking. With so many uses, it’s no wonder that we are running out of sand.
The good news is that there are ways to conserve sand and reduce consumption. Instead of sand, we can use recycled glass, plastic, and clay for construction projects.
We can also reuse or recycle sand instead of discarding it. By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that there will be enough sand for future generations.
The Benefits Of Using Recycled Sand
Recycled sand is one way to help alleviate the pressure on natural sand reserves. Recycled sand is made from Waste Management’s construction and demolition debris, which would otherwise end up in landfills. The benefits of using recycled sand are many:
- It is a sustainable resource
- It requires less energy to produce than virgin sand
- It helps reduce waste
In addition, recycled sand can be used in a variety of applications, from concrete to asphalt to filtration media. As the world looks for ways to sustainably meet the demand for sand, recycled sand is an increasingly attractive option.
