Why materials matter: Unlocking value from end of life

When a building is complete, what really happens to the materials left behind?

This often overlooked stage of the circular economy is so important when it comes to reducing waste, preserving value and lowering emissions. Yet, in practice, recovering and reusing materials is full of challenges.

As part of Circular Economy Week 2025, Tarkett invites you to their London showroom where you’ll hear from a panel of experts discussing the end of the circularity loop and how they are breaking ground with take back schemes and reuse.

What to expect:

• A short talk from Professor Sophie Thomas FCIWM OBE providing insight into what happens when the building’s done. Sophie has been a campaigner and leader in sustainable and circular design for nearly 30 years. She helps industries rethink material use through design, innovation and waste transformation.

• Panel discussion with contributors from

  • Ross Dight, Tarkett: on circular design and Tarkett’s ReStart® programme.

  • Scott Campbell, Surface Matter: on Material Rescue and giving surfaces a second life.

  • Molly Macaulay, Overbury: on how they promote collaboration within the built environment to give resources a second life

• Open Q&A to share challenges and ideas from your own projects

• Networking and nibbles