Carlisle’s Rebuild recently hosted the first event in Cumbria for the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation.
Rebuild, a construction reuse hub that collects and redistributes surplus building materials while providing training and community support, hosted the institution, the professional body for those working in highways, transportation, and related infrastructure, this month.
The event, Combining Circular Economy with Community and Social Impact – is it a myth?, brought together professionals from across the transport and construction sectors for an evening of discussion, learning, and networking.
Attendees enjoyed a full programme, including:
- A presentation from Dr Geoff Wallman, founder and CEO of Intelligen, a Haltwhistle-based SME innovating in smart mobility infrastructure. His talk, Is Going Off Grid the way to Net Zero for Transport Hubs?, explored solar-powered e-bike hubs and bus shelters, good data practices, and low-energy edge computing.
- A talk from Rebuild’s founder, Emma Porter, on how circular economy and social impact work in practice, including the realities of materials, logistics, and community engagement.
- Informal networking with attendees from across the region, providing space for open discussion and exchange of practical ideas.
Rebuild said: “The event created a valuable forum for industry professionals to move beyond theory and engage with the practical realities of implementing circular approaches.
“Attendees were able to see first-hand how Rebuild operates as a working reuse hub, understanding both the challenges and the opportunities that arise when integrating circular economy principles into construction and community projects.”
Rebuild continues to invite organisations, industry bodies, and practitioners to host or collaborate on future events, using its site as a live demonstration of circular economy in action and a space for learning, collaboration, and innovation.
