MERCi has done several things to improve it's use of materials.
Windows
After extensive investigation a decision was made to use wooden, double-glazed, K-glass windows throughout the Centre.
Insulation
The building uses a number of insulation materials, which act as an educational tool exploring their practical uses. Materials used experimentally include shredded paper, shredded polystyrene packaging, straw, and reclaimed rock wool.
Reclaimed Materials
We have striven to use as much reclaimed materials as possible to reduce our environmental impact, save funds and to ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Over 80% of the materials used in the refurbishment are reclaimed. We have used reclaimed timber, bricks, insulation, doors, radiators etc. For example, cardboard and polystyrene left from the previous owner is used as insulation. Hardcore from the construction of the lift is used in the disabled access ramp.
Salvo webpage has a list of reclaimed materials specialists.
A PVC free Building
Because of the growing evidence concerning the environmental and health implications of PVC plastic, the Centre is a PVC-free building. Any purchased cabling, ducting, piping and other refurbishment materials are manufactured from PVC-free materials like other plastics, or metals. AECB website lists PVC free material manufacturers.
Environmentally-friendly Paints
Due to the health impacts of solvent-based paints and the environmental concerns about the petroleum industry, MERCi has striven to use water based paints which use natural earth pigments. We used Kiem Paints to paint plaster-work and natural earth pigments (from Calch Ty-Mawr Lime Ltd) to stain concrete.
Water Conservation
All toilets are designed to use a minimal amount of water. Most sinks include spray taps. On the top floor we have a compost toilet, which uses no water. There are future plans to collect, treat and re-use the buildings' rain water to flush toilets.
Timber from Sustainably Managed Forests
The use of reclaimed timber is maximised, but where virgin timber is purchased we ensure that it is Forest Stewardship Council certified. This is an independent system established by the Soil Association and World Wide Fund for Nature to ensure timber comes from sustainable sources.
