Too good to waste: Unlocking the potential of construction and demolition waste

Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTION How can architecture demonstrate the use of waste from construction and demolition sites to help achieve Auckland Council’s vision of zero waste by 2040?

ABSTRACT The negative impact of waste materials on the environment is increasing globally. In Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, it is causing destruction to wetlands, landscapes, and marine habitats. Auckland Council has responded to the problem by setting a bold goal, a vision of zero waste to landfill by 2040. This research by design project seeks to support that vision.

Too Good to Waste focuses on the problem of waste from construction and demolition, specifically timber waste. The architectural proposition proposes repurposing an underutilised car parking building in Mangere City to accommodate two functions, firstly, to establish a headquarters for the Brown Butterbean Motivational (BBM) Programme which runs free fitness programmes focusing on helping people to achieve healthy weight goals. It is targeted at Pacific Islanders and Maori across Auckland. The second function specifically addresses the research question by establishing a construction and demolition waste hub for sorting and processing timber waste products and to generate functional and useable materials. Space is also provided for free carpentry and woodwork craftsmanship courses.

Auckland Council’s 5R waste management hierarchy, and further research by Hebel et al in Building from Waste, are used to establish a design methodology for Too Good to Waste. Four key architectural precedents, which demonstrate either one or more waste management principles or inform the programme, also inform the design.

The resulting design addresses a social need while demonstrating the potential of what are currently regarded as waste materials from the construction industry. By repurposing an underutilised building, rather than demolishing it, the creation of yet more waste is avoided. Throughout the project, the use of waste materials from either the repurposing process, the processing hub, or the workshops, is celebrated, demonstrating their value and potential. These materials are simply too good to waste.