Closed Loop Object Making in and for Community
- Publisher:
- AMPS (Architecture, Media, Politics, Society)
- Publication Type:
- Conference Proceeding
- Citation:
- http://architecturemps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Amps-Proceedings-Series-19.2.pdf, 2020, 19, (2), pp. 225-236
- Issue Date:
- 2020-06-17
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The production of objects is necessary for society to properly function, however, most objects are made long distances from where they are used. Making objects closer to where they are needed can significantly reduce demand on resources. Cities once supplied many of the objects they needed and there a signs that this localised approach to object making could be renewed. The noise, mess and large spaces associated with traditional forms of making can be offset by adopting new ways of object making. Furthermore, smaller and more agile making centres could efficiently incorporate closed loop processes to minimise energy use and material consumption.
This paper will present a case study of material re-use within a defined community setting. The community is proposed as a means to address the void between waste material management conducted on an urban scale and the single householder wanting to effectively recycle materials. The scale of a community enables a model of production that is feasible and informed by the needs of that community.
A design research approach was adopted that was practitioner led. An analysis of the material flow within my university community identified a material appropriate to the study. Tests were conducted to transform the material from waste product to a production resource. Capabilities within the community are harnessed to transform ideas into practical object-based solutions.
The results demonstrate that re-purposing a communities waste material rather than disposing of them, is a model of production worthy of further investigation. The ability to access suitable quantities of uncontaminated material and an available and easily accessed end-user, enables workable solutions to make a real impact in terms of material use and waste management.
The values of object making are understood to benefit a broad spectrum of society including the economy, national security, mental health, childhood learning and culture. Making objects locally and in a context that can enable reduced waste maintains a direct link to one of society’s most ancient traditions.
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