GI Grow

Currently, there is no specification in Vancouver for constructing green infrastructure with recycled materials. In 2020, Metro Vancouver reported that construction and demolition waste was the largest proportion for the functional waste category. G.I. Grow suggests recycling parts of this waste by incorporating it into green infrastructure. We chose to look at bioswales as they are very easy to implement in urban settings, making them one of the most scalable forms of green infrastructure – but this project easily applies to other forms as well. By using recycled concrete as drainage aggregate, compost as soil, and recycled wood as mulch, for example, we would divert waste from landfill and offset emissions and costs. G.I. Grow also takes the impacts of climate change into consideration. The young trees in new bioswales may need support to offset increasing drought effects. We constructed a physical prototype of a tree watering bag made of recycled billboard vinyl. This further promotes the concept of a closed-loop supply chain; re-integrating used resources back into our environment and eliminating the need for newly constructed materials. We tested it out, and it works just as well as a non-recycled bag! Considering G.I. Grow aligns with the goals of Vancouver’s Rain City Strategy, we believe it would be an innovative addition to strategies already being implemented. G.I. Grow also aims to engage with members of Vancouver’s community who want to exercise their green thumb. By creating an “Adopt a Bioswale” extension of the City’s existing “Adopt a Catch Basin” program, community members can partake in the upkeep and maintenance of bioswales throughout the city. G.I. Grow demonstrates the feasibility, viability and importance of incorporating recycled materials into green infrastructure, as well as generates community engagement and promotes the benefits of a closed-loop recycling system.