The ETCs research
and technology program includes projects in the areas of water, food,
energy, and material resources (including building and
construction). The emphasis of the ETCs work is the interactions between
these areas.
Research and Development
at the ETC is keen to foster the move toward eliminating the notion
of waste. As an alternative to short material
life, the ETC focuses its research and development on continuous materials
cycling.
One key area
is the use of appropriate building materials, including the use of
recycled
materials in construction. Further consideration
includes the reuse of construction waste and, where required,
appropriate disposal.
Other material cycles investigated include alternatives for paper production,
compost production and the use of dry and wet composting toilets.
In considering the appropriateness of a material, ETC staff question
lifecycle impacts, including their method of manufacture, use and final
disposal. This enables a better understanding of where more environmentally
beneficial substitutes can be found and what innovations might take place.
