Japan: Chiyoda Ute is taking part in a demonstration project intended to demonstrate the recycling of gypsum wallboard. The so-called ‘horizontal recycling scheme’ includes construction company Mori Building, interior design company Senba and wallboard recycling company Tokuyama Chiyoda Gypsum. Based on the results of the demonstration the companies hope to build a wallboard recycling supply chain.

It is estimated that the volume of wallboard waste in Japan will exceed 2Mt/yr in 2032 and 3Mt/yr in 2047. However, there are concerns that the recycling rate is low and managed final disposal sites are becoming scarce. In addition, supplies of synthetic gypsum from coal-fired power stations are expected to decrease. At present the country imports over 2Mt/yr of gypsum.

US: Out West Drywall is among building materials producers that have donated their products to non-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity’s latest affordable housing development in Montrose, Colorado. Local press has reported that the producer donated its gypsum wallboard for use in the development. Habitat for Humanity uses the economic process of shared appreciation to give its homeowners 5% composite annual growth in the equity value of their new homes over 20 years. Its goal is to raise living standards by increasing access to housing.

Canada: Wheatland County Municipal Planning Commission has granted Canadian Gypsum Company permission to build a gypsum wallboard plant in Wheatland, Alberta. The Canadian Press has reported that the company, along with Invest Alberta Corporation and the government of Alberta, will invest US$153m in the project.

Brazil: The Brazilian Geological Service (SGB) has announced its upcoming auctioning of gypsum mining sites in Pará. Business News Americas has reported that lots include the Calcário Aveiro site and the Gipsita Rio Cupari site. Altogether, prospective buyers can bid on 2890 hectares of gypsum reserves.