This innovative partnership involves Baukarussell, a cooperative specialising in social urban mining, and Job-TransFair, a social enterprise in Austria. Together, they focus on dismantling buildings in a circular way, prioritising the reuse and high-quality recycling of construction materials while providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals distanced from the labour market.
Baukarussell coordinates the manual dismantling of buildings, involving over 10 social enterprises across Austria as subcontractors. Job-TransFair handles operational activities, including the provision of training to social integration workers. This collaboration leverages the strengths of each partner to maximise material recovery while ensuring a socially inclusive workforce.
Between 2020 and 2023, the partnership enabled the reuse of more than 50% of dismantled construction components, amounting to 1,330 tonnes, and the proper disposal and recycling of other materials. Additionally, it provided 30,000 hours of inclusive work.
“We aim to expand our workforce, take on more projects, and promote a circular economy. We are committed to operationalising our vision, developing our market presence, and becoming a central hub for social urban mining. This growth hinges on our ability to secure projects and involve social economy partners effectively. Ultimately, we aim for Baukarussell to be synonymous with the circular economy in everyone’s minds.”
— Baukarussell representative
©Photo by BauKarussel
