Consider ways to reuse existing structures or materials before opting for new construction – helping to reduce embodied carbon and promote resource efficiency.
Repurposing existing resources involves considering the long-term impacts of engineering activities relating to the use of materials, waste during fabrication/construction, energy efficiency during use and end-of-life issues.
In tough economic times, it’s even more important to consider repurposing existing structures and materials to reduce spend and waste.
Government Bill – Right to Repair
The Consumer Guarantees (Right to Repair) Amendment Bill passed its first reading in Parliament on 19 February. If successful, the legislation would compel manufacturers to ensure repair facilities and spare parts for their products are made available in New Zealand.
Read the Consumer Guarantees (Right to Repair) Amendment Bill
Read RNZ article on the Bill
Resurgence of British repair shops
A boom in fixing rather than throwing away items creates jobs and cuts waste, emissions and costs.
Read The Guardian article
Questions to ask yourself
- Have I used resources in a sustainable and efficient way while still meeting any resilience objectives?
- What steps can I take to minimise waste and promote environmentally responsible re-use, recycling, and disposal?
- Are replacement parts easy to source or replicate, should things need fixing?
For further information about the nine actions, view Practice Note 32 – The role of the engineer
