BEST
PRACTICE
CAT A: WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?
Ideally Cat A as a concept wouldn’t exist. However, we realise that it is unrealistic to totally eliminate it in the current market.
Equally, we believe that there is unlikely to one ‘silver bullet’ solution to the problem of Cat A waste. There are however a number of alternatives to Cat A fit-outs which can be implemented when we challenge the status quo.
These include:
Install only sample areas that showcase the potential of a space to tenants.
Install lighting to background levels and an electrical infrastructure that facilitates easy modification.
Install a more considered and creative interior designed for retention, commonly known as Cat A+
Uses virtual or augmented reality to allow prospective tenants to view spaces in 3D.
CAT A: HOW TO MINIMISE ITS IMPACT.
If Cat A is unavoidable, its impact can be minimised in the following ways:
Specify used and refurbished materials and products.
Ensure information about the materials and products used is documented.
Use standard form factors for luminaires.
Use materials covered by a supplier take-back scheme.
Lease the materials. We hope that leasing initiatives, currently in their infancy, will become a successful business model in the sector.
At end of life, offer the luminaires back to the original manufacturer, repurpose them for another fit-out or place on a reuse platform (eg Recolight Reuse Hub) or use an environmentally responsible clearance company (We recommend Traco UK).
Reuse Hub
Recolight’s development of the Reuse Hub shows the company’s commitment to encourage and facilitate reuse in the lighting industry.
The Reuse Hub is a lighting digital marketplace.
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A platform to promote the donation of new and used lighting products and equipment.
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A responsible and effective exercise for avoiding waste, reducing recycling, stimulating reuse as well as responding to the climate emergency.
