GIA' s Countdown to COP #6 - Materials reuse with Glasgow Wood Recycling (11/02/2021)

The Glasgow Institute of Architects were joined for the next round in their Countdown to COP series by Glasgow Wood recycling.

This time we are talking materials Reuse Currently supported by Zero Waste Scotland, RE-CASK is Glasgow Wood Recycling’s latest project investigating the potential of end-of-life oak whisky casks. Our task has been to develop innovative ways of giving life to this material to save it being used as biomass or sent to landfill. Over the last 6 months we’ve worked our way through 80 casks, exploring everything from new ways of dismantling the casks, processing and working with the individual staves, to experimenting with a variety of finishes. As a result, we’ve been able to develop several pilot product ranges which we believe there is demand for and matches the ethos at Glasgow Wood Recycling.

The ranges include fencing, screens and partitions, outdoor play equipment, cladding and outdoor furniture, which all fully showcase the unique character of the casks. On top of this we also offer the processed staves as raw materials to enable customers to create for themselves. For the next stage of the project we’re seeking insight from professionals for feedback and to help identify how we can successfully commercialise some of these products.

We’re all looking at a very different future, where carbon footprint is a deciding factor, and environments need to adapt in order to remain useable. By successfully integrating RE-CASK into the GWR portfolio we can keep working towards a sustainable future whilst also continuing to provide opportunities to the people of Glasgow. Please take a look at our digital catalogues here: www.issuu.com/glasgowwoodrecycling