Building construction and deconstruction consume a vast amount of resources and are major contributors to carbon dioxide emissions, as well as the production of landfill waste. This makes construction a key player/target when addressing climate change. Apart from developing more sustainable materials and production methods, reusing and salvaging already existing building materials for renovations or new developments will be an important part of reducing energy consumption and waste within the construction sector.

 

Reuse L.A. is a digital interface to promote the use of salvaged building materials. It aims at creating a real-time inventory by digitizing the material stock of two Los Angeles-based retailers who own vast stock of salvaged building materials. Stored in large yards, not documented or measured, it is very difficult and time-consuming for potential customers to find specific components. With its digital database and accessible real-time inventory application, Reuse L.A. aims at connecting the sellers to a wider range of potential clients such as homeowners, contractors, architects, DIY communities, etc.

 

In addition, Reuse L.A. seeks to address possible obstacles when using salvaged material, such as design processes, aesthetic prejudices, building permissions, environmental clearances, material performances, etc. with various stakeholders through workshops, talks, and teaching. Promoting the reuse of materials not only reduces overall energy consumption in construction, but also offers materials that are often cheaper than the usual market prices, as well as the potential to use the entire recycling process for generating new jobs, skills, and economies.

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