Case Study - J Mould's Recycling Centre
Project Summary
J Mould’s recycling centre in Reading showcases a forward-thinking approach to integrating reclaimed materials, including steel sections, into new and existing developments.
Workshop and storage facility built entirely from salvaged materials
A key example of J Mould’s dedication to reuse is their recently completed workshop and storage facility, which was constructed entirely from reclaimed materials. The building’s main steel frame, gantry crane, mezzanine floors, and roller shutter doors were all dismantled, relocated, and reassembled at the depot. This approach not only minimised the environmental impact but also saved significant resources compared to using new materials.
Reuse of portal span warehouses
Numerous dismantled portal span buildings are held in storage for future reuse. Currently, the resale market for portal frame buildings is limited, and some of the frames have been in storage for a long time, awaiting future projects.
Reuse of steel sections
J Mould has a strong reclamation incentive, integrating reclaimed steel sections throughout the site for various applications such as constructing buildings and boundary walls. Several other reused steel components are also stored around the depot for future projects, including steel staircases and fencing materials.
Reuse of other materials
The centre actively stores various reclaimed materials, including smaller components like nuts, bolts, cleats, and brackets, recovered from previously dismantled buildings and ready for reuse in new projects.
In addition, J Mould is currently utilising salvaged sanitary fittings and cupboards, along with reclaimed solar panels and a new inverter unit, to fabricate mobile welfare units for use within the organisation.
Recycling efforts
J Mould’s sustainable practices extend beyond steel reuse to include several other recycling initiatives:
Concrete Crushing and Washing: The recycling centre features a large-scale concrete crushing and washing plant that produces high-quality aggregates and washed sand, catering to local construction needs.
Plastics Recycling: The site also houses a dedicated plastics recycling area, where different types of plastic waste are separated, graded, and baled for further processing. These efforts contribute to reducing landfill waste and encourage sustainable material management across various streams.
Office complex relocation: A holistic approach to reuse
One of the most significant examples of J Mould’s reuse efforts is the office complex at the recycling centre. The entire building was dismantled and relocated to the Reading site, including all internal elements such as doors, carpet tiles, glazed partitions, fitted kitchens, and bathrooms. This holistic approach to reclamation illustrates the potential for significant material savings and resource conservation in large-scale redevelopment projects.
Key takeaways
Commitment to Sustainable Development: J Mould not only sells reclaimed materials for future reuse but also actively integrates them into their own buildings and site developments. The company’s efforts reflect a practical model for circular economy implementation in the construction industry.
Challenges in the Reuse Market: Market demand for certain items, such as portal frame buildings, remains unpredictable. This indicates a need for adaptive strategies to enhance the utilisation of stored reclaimed materials.
Holistic Material Reuse: The integration of reclaimed components throughout the recycling centre, from structural steel to interior finishes, sets a practical example for sustainable development practices. The comprehensive approach to material reuse encourages considering reclamation at every stage of a project’s lifecycle, from planning to construction.