SUMMARY OF RESEARCH
A case study approach exploring the complex interplay of reuse and furniture. The research finds that policies have significant impact on the scope of furniture re-use if driven by Life Cycle Analysis (LCA). LCA could be considered to evaluate the offset utility of reuse.
Re-use tends to leveraged by lower income groups, but this is not exclusive. Re-use does not necessarily ensure a reduced demand for new furniture or reduce waste going to landfill in the long run but is a waste treatment method that extends landfills and supports socio economic programs in a community.
Community Reuse Organizations can provide innovative environmental solutions as well as support low-income families through the provision of low cost, reclaimed and refurbished furniture and electrical appliances.
