IN-PERSON London. Section A

Abstract

Hazardous materials are not only harmful to the well-being of the inhabitant, but also detrimental to the balance of the ecosystem. By defining hazardous materials and having a clear understanding of the life-cycle and impact they have on the environment, it is possible to assess how they can be reused and possibly repurposed. The reuse of hazardous materials as well as other harmful materials, for instance, could be implemented in place of other non-renewable resources. One example of this is the recycling of used building materials that are repurposed to extend the material life-cycle. In turn, as more of these strategies become codified as typical building processes rather than one-offs, the profession can shift the practices of specifications in the design phase to benefit current and future use of existing structures. When intentional, materials that would otherwise be considered harmful, have the ability to be safely reused as building materials removing the posed threat to human well-being and positively impacting the environment. This is evident through building materials that are re-purposed or material alternatives that serve the same purpose but have a continuous life-cycle. This paper explores the potential of sustainable material selection early in the design process, the best practices and applications as it serves the individual and the community, providing inclusive holistic design. By highlighting the well-being of the stakeholders as well as the broader community, we can emphasize the magnitude of the impact of typical building practices on human health to develop a holistic approach to design and construction.