Breaking it Down:
A Comprehensive Guide to Building Deconstruction and Material Reuse Policy
Breaking it Down: A Comprehensive Guide to Building Deconstruction and Material Reuse Policy offers a thorough roadmap for leading the transformation of solid waste into a circular economy through innovative local policies. Authored by the founder of the Reclamation Administration database, and consultant to the Portland, Oregon Building Deconstruction Ordinance, this book draws on over a decade of experience in pioneering the building deconstruction and material reuse movement.
Each chapter is enriched with personal reflections, policy process insights, and a “The Shorthand” section, which provides concise guidance and key points for quick reference. This practical approach ensures that readers can easily navigate the complexities of building deconstruction policy and drive impactful change in their communities.
Breaking it Down is an essential resource for policymakers, activists, industry professionals, and anyone committed to advancing sustainable practices through building deconstruction and material reuse. By leveraging the strategies and insights shared in this guide, readers can lead their communities toward a more sustainable, resilient future.
The Reclamation Administration Database is now archived. Please use the contact form for any inquiries.
In 2011, I founded the Reclamation Administration database, exclusively dedicated to building deconstruction and material reuse. For thirteen years, this resource was freely accessible to the public, serving thousands of individuals and organizations. During this time, I curated over four thousand news posts, research products, resource sheets, authored articles, and provided detailed reports and data. The Reclamation Administration played a pivotal role in advancing the building deconstruction and material reuse movement. It was utilized by numerous organizations, students, municipalities, and businesses to gain insights, write theses, formulate policies, and significantly reduce waste.
As one of the earliest resources on building deconstruction and material reuse, the Reclamation Administration has now transitioned to a new phase. In line with this evolution, I have authored the first comprehensive book on deconstruction policy, titled Breaking it Down: A Comprehensive Guide to Building Deconstruction and Material Reuse Policy. This book encapsulates my work with the Reclamation Administration and my advisory role in Portland, Oregon’s Building Deconstruction Ordinance.
Leveraging my extensive experience and expertise, I now offer consulting services to support initiatives focused on building deconstruction and material reuse. I am dedicated to helping others use these practices to foster positive environmental change.
This infographic is a collaboration with artist Bruce Worden, and is based on Sara Badiali’s article Deconstruction vs. Demolition: Portland, Oregon’s Potential for Groundbreaking Health and Safety Studies in Building Demolition.
It is for sale for $55 please use the contact form to inquire.
Articles
Research & Report on: Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Building Materials Sara Badiali Prepared for: King County, Washington February 2023
Deconstruction vs. Demolition: Portland, Oregon’s Potential for Groundbreaking Health and Safety Studies in Building Demolition Reclamation Administration: July 22, 2016
Reuse Centers Ways to Optomize Partnerships Reclamation Administration 2015
Drowning in Demolition Building Material Reuse Association: February 2014 Newsletter
Deconstruction is Policy Already Written Building Material Reuse Association: March 2014 Newsletter.
Press
Deconstruction - Breaking it Down Salvo News 2024