Minimizing waste is always a noble task, but I don't see a very pressing need for a reuseable filter.
A normal filter should last 30,000 miles. Cars probably average 150,000 miles during their lifetime, so 5 filters (@ $8 each) will total $40.
Someone who blows compressed air backwards through the filter (being sure to seal off the engine side from contamination) could probably run their filter 45,000-60,000 miles. At 150,000 miles, 3-4 filters (@ $8 each) totals $24-$32.
What about waste? 3-4 airfilters is very minimal waste to begin with (6 x 8 x 1.5 inch box) and they are made of paper. I don't see why an airfilter cannot be recycled, at least the paper element (which is >80% by volume).
For those who visit dusty sites, then a low efficiency, cheap, removable plastic pre-filter would help keep the primary filter clean. Interesting conversation, though. I would be interested in an efficient, reuseable filter if they did become available.
- LostCause