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The University of Auckland's project aims to salvage reusable materials from 1,200 houses destroyed by Cyclone Gabrielle and floods in 2023. Led by Associate Professor Mike Davis, the research focuses on mapping materials from red-stickered homes to create an 'urban mine' that promotes a circular economy.

Hand-held devices and drones will aid in identifying material quantities in various house types. The project also seeks to pinpoint environmentally harmful materials, guiding sustainable building practices.

Over 600 red-stickered homes have been addressed, aiming to normalize the purchase of second-hand materials. Results are expected later this year.