Viability of building material reuse centres in the UK

About the report

An MSc investigation into the role that regional building material reuse centres (BMRCs are a work area for BioRegional) might play in increasing efficiency and promoting waste reduction in the UK construction industry. The study outlines the characteristics and practises deemed necessary to create a financially sustainable BRMC which demonstrates both environmental and social benefits.

The study explores the environmental benefits of reuse and provides an in-depth assessment of the market for reusable materials addressing a range of groups. A set or parameters were devised as a means of measuring economic, social and environmental impact against which existing reuse centres have been analysed. Interviews were then conducted with key stakeholders in the field of reuse and findings discussed.

The paper concludes that BMRCs have a key role to play in reducing the environmental impact of construction which can deliver broad social benefits. Significant barriers exist presently within industry, consumer culture and in policy which make establishing a BRMC extremely challenging, although opportunities do exist where particular sets of characteristics can be brought together.

Published December 2011
Pages 131

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