TRACE
Transforming Construction Material Reuse in Scotland
Building a Smarter Future for Construction
The construction industry is one of the largest consumers of raw materials and one of the biggest generators of waste. Every year, valuable building materials are discarded despite having significant reuse potential. Through our GoodBuild project, Good Green Futures is helping to change that.
As a key partner in the TRACE project, we are working with organisations across Scotland to explore how technology, collaboration and innovation can make construction material reuse easier, more transparent and more accessible.
What is TRACE?
TRACE is an innovative project focused on developing a digital marketplace and material tracking system that enables construction materials to be reused rather than wasted.
The project is exploring how technologies such as blockchain can provide trusted information about reclaimed materials, helping buyers and sellers understand:
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Where materials have come from
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Their condition and quality
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Their reuse history
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Environmental benefits and carbon savings
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Availability and location
By improving confidence in reclaimed materials, TRACE aims to make reuse a normal part of construction projects across Scotland.
GoodBuild's Role in TRACE
GoodBuild, based at the Stirling Reuse Hub, is Scotland's first community construction reuse hub. We collect, process and sell surplus and reclaimed construction materials, helping reduce waste while making building supplies more affordable.
As part of TRACE, GoodBuild provides real-world expertise and practical testing opportunities. Our role includes:
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Sharing insights from operating a construction reuse hub
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Helping identify barriers to material reuse
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Testing prototype systems and processes
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Engaging with construction professionals, architects, contractors and local authorities
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Providing feedback on how digital tools can work in practice
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Supporting the development of a scalable reuse marketplace
Our experience handling thousands of reclaimed items gives the project valuable insight into the practical challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
GoodBuild is proud to be contributing to this work and helping demonstrate how material reuse can become a mainstream part of Scotland's construction industry.
A Skills-Based Approach
Where appropriate, this service can be delivered as a supported learning opportunity for our volunteers. In these cases, the work may be offered free of charge, enabling individuals to gain hands-on experience, build confidence, and develop practical skills in a supervised setting.
Why do we take this approach?
Community organisations receive valuable practical support
Volunteers gain meaningful, real-world experience
Local skills and pathways into green employment are strengthened
Who It's For
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Charities
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Community Groups
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Social Enterprises
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Third Sector Organisations
If your organisation would benefit from practical maintenance or small improvement works we'd love to hear from you.
Get in touch at enquiries@goodgreenfutures.org.uk to start the conversation.