Transforming Construction Waste Management: SiTESalvage Wins the 2025 iTwin4Good Challenge

Image: © Bim | iStock

Introduction

In a groundbreaking initiative, a team of students representing the UK and Ireland has been crowned the victor of the 2025 iTwin4Good Challenge, showcasing their innovative use of digital technology to combat construction waste. This international challenge, organized by Bentley Systems and Enactus, aimed to empower university students to harness digital twin technology in addressing critical sustainability issues. With contributions from teams across the globe, the challenge highlighted innovative solutions to pressing problems in construction and demolition waste, renewable energy, and resource management.

The Challenge: A Call to Innovate

The 2025 iTwin4Good Challenge drew participation from university students in countries including the US, Germany, Canada, and Brazil, all competing to find sustainable solutions for modern challenges. The task was clear: utilize digital twin technology to explore and address the environmental impacts of construction, with a focus on innovative reuse and recycling practices.

The Winning Solution: SiTESalvage

The standout project, SiTESalvage, tackles one of the critical issues of our time: the staggering amount of waste generated by the construction industry. According to the World Bank, over 2.2 billion tonnes of solid waste are produced worldwide each year, with nearly 40% attributed to construction activities. The SiTESalvage team developed a digital twin-powered platform designed to divert demolition materials away from landfills, significantly mitigating their environmental impact.

This innovative platform utilizes iModels, which provide real-time visibility into upcoming demolition projects. By doing so, stakeholders can identify, plan for, and repurpose available materials efficiently. The overarching goal is to drive reuse and recycling efforts, ultimately reducing the construction sector’s carbon footprint.

Other Notable Projects

While SiTESalvage claimed the top spot, other teams also presented groundbreaking solutions:

Basola: Addressing Plastic Waste

The runner-up, Basola, based in Germany, tackled the pressing issue of plastic waste by developing a solar-powered pyrolysis reactor. This technology transforms discarded plastics into usable fuel, thereby converting waste into a valuable resource. By integrating iTwin technology with IoT sensors, Basola’s solution also monitors the reactor’s performance, enhancing safety and simplifying maintenance. Their project demonstrates the potential of technological innovation in mitigating plastic pollution and contributing to sustainable energy production.

EcoTwins: Repurposing Abandoned Sites

The second runner-up, EcoTwins from Canada, focused on the potential of abandoned gold mine sites, which are often left unattended or overlooked. Their project proposed repurposing these sites for solar and wind energy developments. By incorporating social, technical, and environmental indicators into their analyses, EcoTwins created a framework for assessing the energy potential of these locations, while addressing possible conflicts surrounding land use. This approach showcases the intersection of renewable energy development and environmental stewardship.

Recognition of Young Innovators

Chris Bradshaw, Chief Sustainability and Education Officer at Bentley Systems, expressed admiration for the ingenuity displayed by all participating teams. He emphasized that the utilization of digital twin technology has the power to bring about transformative changes in sustainable infrastructure management. "These student teams showcased the potential of combining creativity with digital solutions to promote meaningful outcomes for communities and the planet," he remarked.

Additionally, George Tsiatis, President and CEO of Enactus Global, highlighted the important role of young leaders in spearheading business innovation for social good. "These projects demonstrate how technology can be employed to tackle global challenges like waste and sustainability, establishing a lasting impact on our environment," he stated.

Conclusion

As the winner of the 2025 iTwin4Good Challenge, SiTESalvage will represent their project at the Enactus World Cup 2025 in Bangkok. Their success not only exemplifies the innovative spirit of today’s youth but also highlights the pivotal role that technology plays in addressing critical environmental issues. In a world increasingly challenged by waste and sustainability dilemmas, the solutions presented by these students offer a glimpse into a future where construction and demolition practices are not just efficient, but also environmentally responsible.

The results of this challenge serve as a powerful reminder that with creativity, technology, and determination, the next generation of leaders can indeed forge a path toward a more sustainable world. Whether it’s through digital twin technology or other innovative practices, the possibilities for improvement are virtually limitless.