## 1 Introduction
Traditionally seen as an environmental issue due to their management and storage, these residues are being transformed into useful resources for building infrastructure. For instance, tailings can be processed to create lightweight aggregates used in concrete blocks and tiles, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional materials, and reducing the extraction of virgin natural resources [21]. Their ability to enhance the thermal and acoustic insulation properties of construction materials also makes them an attractive option for projects aimed at improving energy efficiency in buildings [22]. Furthermore, soil stabilization with tailings has proven effective for constructing roads and other infrastructure, providing a solid and durable base that can withstand adverse weather conditions and heavy use [23]. Similarly, slags from the mining and metallurgy industry, previously regarded only as a by-product to be disposed of, are now being explored for their potential in producing concrete, road foundations, and other structural materials [24]. These applications not only help in reducing the environmental impact associated with the extraction and processing of virgin materials but support global sustainability goals by lowering emissions and reducing resource depletion [25]. Originating from the intensive activities of the mining sector and the metal smelting processes in the metallurgy industry, slag is now recognized for its robust properties, such as durability and thermal resistance, making it highly suitable for construction uses [26]. For example, copper slag, a by-product of the copper smelting process, has been effectively utilized as a partial replacement for sand in concrete and mortar mixtures. This substitution not only helps conserve natural sand reserves but enhances the strength and durability of the concrete due to the higher hardness of copper slag compared to traditional sand [27]. Another innovative application is the use of slag from nickel and platinum processing for road construction. The high density and abrasiveness of this slag make it an ideal material for high-traffic road surfaces, offering better longevity and less maintenance than conventional materials [28]. These progressive uses of mining slag demonstrate the broad potential of these materials to contribute to more sustainable construction practices and resource management. These practices enhance both the environmental and economic efficiency of the sectors involved by turning waste into wealth and reducing the overall industrial footprint. However, the integration of these secondary materials into mainstream construction practices is not without challenges. Economic feasibility, technological limitations, and regulatory frameworks often act as barriers to the widespread adoption of these innovative practices [29]. This review will examine these challenges, exploring the technological innovations that facilitate the recovery and reuse of these materials, and discuss the strategies needed to overcome existing barriers. Despite the growing body of literature on the use of secondary materials in construction, this review aims to bridge the gaps by providing a novel synthesis of up-to-date technological innovations, comprehensive economic analyses, and current regulatory frameworks. As such, this review endeavors to shed light on the multifaceted benefits and the transformative potential of these materials, ultimately contributing to the evolution of a more sustainable and circular construction industry.