Finding out what would otherwise be thrown away or destroyed, and instead recycling is a matter of time. Luleå municipality, which is going to demolish a couple of properties, is now giving citizens the opportunity to pick up building materials for reuse.
– Instead of everything going to the tip, it’s great that it will be used again. We have just bought a house and there is quite a lot to do and everything is very expensive, says Lisa Norberg, home owner.
Through online advertisements, Luleå Municipality has offered Luleborn to pick up materials and fixtures from two houses that are to be demolished. The interest has been great and a raffle has been held for those who have been given the opportunity to take what they want for an hour or so.
– We have seen private actors doing the same thing and then we have taken after them, says John Sandström, project manager Luleå Municipality.
“Hope for goodwill”
Luleå municipality believes that they do not make any profit from this, but instead hope for “goodwill”.
– It’s good that we can benefit the public with materials when material prices are high and there is always someone who is happy.
The opportunity to get furniture for free has been popular and sometimes there was a queue to get into the houses. Lisa Norberg was one of those who were there to collect material.
– My first cut is a carpenter’s bench, I’ve always wanted one, so now I have one, we’ve found fresh white goods, an old one, a new stove, a new freezer and fridge, she says.
Could this be something for other municipalities to follow?
– Yes, I think so for sure, if this turns out well then it is a positive thing, it really is the right time to reuse, to reuse materials that have time to run, says John Sandström, project manager Luleå municipality.