Deconstruction Environmental Concerns and Real Life Lessons Learned Jeff Cooper AECC & Andrew Erickson Home Headquarters
Topics for discussion What is “deconstruction”? Choosing the right deconstruction site Hazardous Material Deconstruction Pilot project Q & A
In the context of physical construction, deconstruction is the selective dismantlement of building components, specifically for re-use, recycling, and waste management. It differs from demolition where a site is cleared of its building by the most expedient means. Deconstruction (definition):
Why deconstruction? Diverts material from entering local landfills through recycling and creative reuse. Creates jobs and job training opportunities for both urban cores and rural areas alike. Provides an opportunity for small businesses to emerge and thrive. Provides the same end result as traditional demolition, a vacant lot.
There are several reasons but one of our biggest regional challenges is the lack of market or dedicated marketplace for consumers to purchase materials generated from deconstruction. Why haven’t we seen more of it?
Know how to pick a winner! Start with Safety Is the building safe to enter? Can your contractors safely perform their jobs? Would you work inside? Perform an Environmental Assessment Know what to look for and commit to sampling suspect materials. Understand what building materials have value Architectural features, hardwoods, other valuable building materials make deconstruction worth it.
Hazardous materials need to be on your radar! By understanding both environmental policy and the associated remediation and disposal costs, you can get more bang for your budget. Develop a strategic bulk- sampling plan, that when combined with positive safety ratings and valuable building materials present, allow you to pick the very best deconstruction projects.
Asbestos Lead-based Paint Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Mercury And much more…. Commonly Found “Hazmats”
Asbestos-Containing Materials
Lead Based Paint Mercury/Universal Waste
PCBs Caulks Mastics Paint Roofing materials And more….
Flammable Liquids/Materials Hazardous Waste Storage Areas Lead-Based Paint Mold Pesticide/Herbicide storage Petroleum-based products Radon Gas Residual process chemicals Small quantity cleaners & solvents VOCs from glues, carpets, etc. The Rest of the Pests!
And YES you can still buy Asbestos Today!
DECONSTRUCTION PILOT 2014 Case Study
DEMOLITION
HYBRID
DECONSTRUCTION
Six Houses
Lumber Harvesting BeforeAfter
Deconstruction Statistics
Deconstruction is… Preserving cultural, historical, and architectural heritage. Enhancing local economies. Driving innovation and creativity in repurposing building materials. Transitioning apprentices to careers in the construction industry. Growing in popularity across our country. Inherently sustainable—meeting the Triple Bottom Line of Sustainability. Promoting community and environmental health.
https :// vimeo.com/ Who’s Next? Building materials reclaimed from deconstruction projects are supporting new small businesses, creating jobs, and fostering innovation. Take a look at one of our area’s most recent success stories: