Re-use of building components. (Towards zero waste in renovation)

The enormous amount of waste produced during building and renovation is a serious environmental problem, which is worsening as building activities increase over the years. This paper investigates, in a case study, the possibilities for reducing waste production in renovation activities. A different approach to the planning phase results in more materials being left on the site or being re-used, and a change in floor plans leads to more re-use of materials, less waste, and less need for new materials. The achievable reduction of environmental impact is calculated with Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) calculations. The environmental impact of this renovation project could be lowered by 5-10%, which is promising for other ones. More precise data on impact of waste reduction will be obtained if LCA is improved. Better coordination during demolition will provide for more re-use