Siding, plumbing parts, windows, flooring and doors. What's the connection? Often, these and countless other building materials still have a lot of life left when removed from homes and businesses during remodeling and renovation projects. Reusing these materials – rather than putting them in a landfill – offers a valuable opportunity to reduce the environmental impact of residential, commercial and industrial construction projects.
Now, waste reduction programs across the region have a new tool in the push for greater material recovery with Reuse It, a 12-minute multimedia video promoting the ease and benefits of construction recycling. Developed by Eugene-based nonprofit BRING Recycling with a grant from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and participation by private and public entities including Metro, Reuse It illustrates the role of construction salvage and reuse in conserving resources, reducing climate change and saving money. The video is narrated by Metro's construction recycling expert, Bryce Jacobson.