Deconstruction involves dismantling buildings in reverse to salvage materials for reuse, benefiting both economically and environmentally. Discover more about the implemented deconstruction plan policies to promote sustainable demolition practices and reduce landfill waste.
(Photo : Unsplash/Mark König )
How does Deconstruction Help Mitigate Climate Change?
In the process of deconstruction, a building is dismantled by disassembling it in the opposite sequence in which it was manufactured. Compared to recycling, deconstruction is a more beneficial use of materials because it allows for the salvage and recovery of building materials for reuse.
As mentioned, it is essential to remember that the building whose useful life has ended is not the only thing at stake while deconstruction is being considered. From the invention of building materials to the construction of the structure, the total amount of energy consumed in the initial production of that building is significant.
Moreover, incorporating adaptation, disassembly, and reuse into a structure's design makes it possible to prolong its useful life and decrease waste, thereby benefiting the communities, proprietors, and occupants economically and environmentally. The removal of buildings can also be avoided entirely with this approach, making it possible for materials to be disassembled quickly, cheaply, and at a minimal cost and then repurposed later.
On the other hand, during the early stages of the design process, design practitioners are discovering new opportunities to reduce environmental impacts, conserve resources, and cut costs. These opportunities are created by designing for adaptability, disassembly, and reuse.
Deconstruction Plan Policies In Several Parts of the United States
Boulder, Colorado
Depending on the age of the building and whether it is residential or commercial, some localities, such as Boulder, Colorado, go even farther and require the deconstruction of any structure being torn down. There is also something that is referred to as a 'mandatory minimum' in Boulder's code. This is a target for the diversion of recyclable and reusable materials, and it mandates that 65% of the weight of a structure must be taken out of landfills through recycling or reuse. The requirements for contractors and the facilitation of material reuse are two more common provisions.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Implementing municipal deconstruction legislation and efforts aimed at condemned city-owned facilities in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, represents a significant step towards more environmentally responsible demolition procedures. Under Pittsburgh's deconstruction plan, city-funded demolitions will include material recovery standards, which support the city's Climate Action Plan goals of 50% greenhouse gas reduction and 100% landfill diversion by 2030. Accordingly, environmental regulators say building and demolition debris comprise 18% of Pennsylvania's municipal garbage stream.
San Antonio, Texas
In cities such as San Antonio, Texas, contractors are required to complete accredited training programs on the appropriate techniques for deconstruction. In addition, several municipalities construct resource centers responsible for collecting, storing, and resale of salvaged building materials to the general public at reduced prices. This helps establish an economical supply chain. Thus, companies that want to be included on San Antonio's list of approved deconstruction contractors must go through a training program supported by the city.
Related Article: Relocating vs. Renovating: 8 Essential Checklists for Deciding Between Moving or Remodeling
