General steps to increase reuse

Five main steps can be identified, leading to increased reuse for renovation and new construction projects.

Step 1: Set clear goals for reuse.

• specify the type of products that will be reused;

• specify the type of reuse:

  • on-site if applicable,

  • external (products/materials harvested from other projects, preferably local, for instance, from other demolition sites, recycling centres, local producers having a surplus, etc.);

  • possibility of reusing products bought for the project in the future (i.e., not buying products with hazardous materials, buying products with longer lifespans).

• assess the potential of space reuse.

Step 2: Prepare an inventory of building materials/products on-site

• assess the suitability for reuse considering:

  • product condition;

  • savings potential (both environmental and economic);

  • ease of disassembly;

  • current functional requirements.

• revise and adjust goals from step 1;

• contact selling platforms (e.g., Efnisveitan).

Step 3: Include the set goals in the proposal/request documents

• specify the type of products that will be reused;

• specify the type of reuse (on-site, external or possible reuse in the future).

Step 4: Set aside time for disassembly

• optimise storage and transport;

• let other companies do the disassembly and harvesting of materials/products;

• specify who takes responsibility for intermediate storage.

Step 5: Monitor reuse during construction and operation

• organise regular meetings to monitor the situation during the construction process;

• during operation – proper maintenance; if necessary – replace products with secondary ones.