Strategies for building material reuse and recycle. (13th February 2006)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Roper, William E.
• Is Part Of: International journal of environmental technology and management. Volume 6:Number 3/4(2006)
• Page Start: 313
• Page End: 345
• Publication Date: 2006-02-13
• Subjects: building deconstruction -- green building practice -- building material reuse -- recycling building material -- recycling businesses -- material clearing houses -- information networking -- sustainability -- building life cycle analysis -- LCA -- waste management -- life cycle management -- LCM -- construction industry; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Green technology -- Periodicals; 333.705
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1466-2132

Abstract

Reuse and recycling of building material is a growing area of interest and concern in many parts of the USA. Current practices and trends in the building material waste management area are examined from a building life cycle standpoint or cradle to reincarnation concept. Strategies include zero waste, integrated recycling, international approaches, reuse of materials, resource optimisation, waste reduction, and deconstruction. Examination of the waste management hierarchy and life cycle management of material is used to improve the understanding of reuse and recycle opportunities. Other considerations include cost, economic factors, social factors and environmental factors. All of these assessments are needed to develop a comprehensive waste management plan for a specific project. Four case studies are also presented to illustrate the benefits that can be derived from effective building material reuse and recycle.