Industrial materials have more value than most people would
expect. Next time you are remodeling your house, or a business is remodeling
the importance of recycling the materials being pulled out should be taken into
consideration. Did you know that when a building is being torn down up to 90%
of recyclable materials are not recycled?
Industrial materials are frequently less costly than new
(raw) materials! This means that they are actually more cost beneficial for
builders, owners, and individuals! The utilization of repurposed or recycled
materials that came out of the building itself during a remodel can actually
save money for all parties involved! This means that the money that is saved
can go into another project, or another part of the building. There are also
companies that specialize in the recycling of industrial materials.
These companies that specialize in recycled materials help
boost the economy as well because they create jobs for individuals! Through the
creation of jobs to help ensure proper utilization of recyclable materials, in
multiple stages of renovation, demolition, and construction green building
materials help create new jobs within the local community, and help keep them
there! Resource management on construction, demolition, and remodel sites can
have positive impacts on the economy.
A perfect example of how resource management throughout the
process of constructing a new building can be beneficial is the EPA Potomac
Yards in Arlington Virginia. The buildings were constructed with 27% recycled
materials. During the construction process a management plan was enacted, and
71% of the materials created during construction of the buildings were kept out
of landfills, and taken to recycling companies. The buildings are also LEED® certified,
so they have lower operating costs than other buildings.
Resource management is important and once implemented can
have positive impacts on the environment, creating green building materials,
and helping to create economic growth.
Works Referenced:
http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/imr/pdfs/recy-bldg.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/imr/index.htm
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