News and Updates | The ReUse People

I recently read an article that described the green-building practices employed on a large commercial project in Los Angeles as though those practices were groundbreaking and unusual.

What startled me about this article, and other similar ones I’ve read recently, is that the writer seemed to have been asleep for the past 30 years. I’m reminded of Washington Irving’s Rip Van Winkle, the Dutch-American colonialist who, after imbibing strong drink, awakes 20 years later, unaware that the American Revolution has happened.

Considering demolition and the recycling of construction materials environmentally newsworthy and calling it “deconstruction” is not just journalistically wrong. To me, it’s inexcusable.

The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) was founded in 1993 by a senior manufacturing executive, a real estate developer, and an environmental lawyer. Shortly after formation, USGBC created an environmental building standard widely known as Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design, or LEED. As of this year, over 195,000 buildings have been built or remodeled to LEED standards.

Articles sometimes label owners, developers, and contractors as green because they recycle concrete and steel. Okay, that’s a positive, but these materials are often recycled not because doing so is environmentally beneficial, but because it is cheaper than throwing them in the local landfill. In fact, not all landfills accept concrete. Those that do charge over 100 dollars per ton, while in Los Angeles, concrete recyclers charge between 45 to 65 dollars per ton, then easily make up the difference by selling the resulting granulated materials.

I can understand old Rip’s amazement at the changes that happened during his 20-year nap, but what’s the excuse for writers, editors, construction executives, and architects not knowing the environmental changes in building design that have happened in the last 30 years, especially in this age of instant media?

Then there’s the misuse of the word "deconstruction." Deconstruction is not a synonym for demolition. To deconstruct something means to reduce it to its constituent parts. And the reason we deconstruct buildings, rather than demolish them, is so that their constituent parts (doors, windows, cabinets, steel beams, lumber, washing machines, refrigerators) can be reused—just as they are.

Although some components of a building may be recycled, recycling breaks things down in order to recast or remold them into something new, which requires additional expenditures of energy. Demolition destroys buildings. Whether their destiny is the landfill or the recycler, the value of the building’s components is destroyed.

Deconstruction preserves that value best when it leads directly to reuse.

Home remodeling can be exciting but overwhelming, especially for beginners. But it’s worth it — whether you're upgrading a single room or reimagining your entire living space, a thoughtful plan can save time, money, and stress. Here’s a quick guide to help you simplify the process and achieve your dream space in seven easy steps:

Define Your Goals and Budget

Before starting your remodel, clarify your goals — whether it’s improving functionality, boosting aesthetics, or enhancing energy efficiency. Defining these objectives will help guide your decisions. Equally important is establishing a realistic budget that includes materials, labor, permits, and a contingency fund for unexpected expenses (typically 10%–20% of the total budget).

Create a Detailed Plan

A well-thought-out plan ensures your remodel stays on track. Here are some key elements to include:

Scope of work: Identify which areas of your home will be remodeled and what tasks need to be completed.
Timeline: Set a realistic timeline that factors in time for design, permits, sourcing materials, and construction.
Design: Create a clear vision for your space by gathering inspiration from design websites, magazines, and Pinterest boards.

If your remodel is complex, consider hiring an architect or designer to help bring your vision to life.

Research and Secure Permits

For remodeling projects involving electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, secure the required permits by researching local codes. Skipping permits can result in fines and issues when selling your home.

Source Your Materials

One of the most critical aspects of remodeling is finding the right materials. Opting for sustainable and budget-friendly materials can save money and reduce your environmental footprint. Here’s where you can start:

Big-box retailers: Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's are popular for their variety and convenience.
Local lumber yards and tile shops: These often carry unique or higher-quality materials.
Salvaged and reclaimed materials: Using reclaimed materials is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

If you’re interested in sustainable sourcing, check out The ReUse People’s retail warehouse. We specialize in salvaged and repurposed building materials, including doors, cabinets, fixtures, and more. By purchasing through The ReUse People, you not only save money but also help divert usable materials from landfills.

Hire the Right Professionals

If you plan to hire professionals, make sure they align with your goals and budget. Interview contractors, check references and reviews, and consider a general contractor to coordinate and streamline your project.

Prepare Your Space

Before construction, clear the area, protect furniture and flooring, and arrange temporary living spaces if needed. For kitchen remodels, set up a temporary kitchen to maintain normalcy.

Monitor Progress and Add Final Touches

Stay in regular communication with your contractor to address issues quickly. Once construction is complete, clean the space and add the final touches — paint, hardware, and décor — to bring your vision to life.

Sourcing Used Materials From The ReUse People

Ready for your remodel? Planning a remodel? Make choices that benefit your wallet and the planet with The ReUse People (TRP). Our retail warehouse offers a wide selection of salvaged materials, from reclaimed wood to vintage fixtures, perfect for unique, eco-conscious designs. Shop with us to reduce waste, support sustainability, and transform your home with purpose!

TRP reduces the solid waste stream and changes the way the built environment is renewed by salvaging building materials and distributing them for reuse. Relied on by architects, contractors, building owners, and federal, state, and local governments since 1993, we’ve deconstructed over 4,000 houses and buildings and diverted over 400,000 tons of waste from landfills. Learn more about our commercial and residential deconstruction, explore our salvaged materials for sale, or donate today to support our work!

Upcycling is a creative and impactful way to reduce waste and breathe new life into old items. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at upcycling, explore its many benefits, and provide some examples and tips to get you started with your own upcycling projects.

What Is Upcycling?

Upcycling is the process of taking discarded or unused items and transforming them into something of higher value, often through creativity and craftsmanship. This process not only reduces waste but also conserves the energy that would otherwise be used in recycling processes.

Upcycling vs. Recycling: What’s the Difference?

While both upcycling and recycling contribute to waste reduction and environmental conservation, they do so in fundamentally different ways:

Recycling: Involves breaking down materials into their raw components and then manufacturing them into new products. For example, recycling a plastic bottle might involve melting it down and using the plastic to create a new bottle or another plastic item. This process often requires significant energy and resources.
Upcycling: Focuses on repurposing an item in its existing form, often enhancing it or giving it a new function. Examples include turning an old ladder into a bookshelf or repurposing wine bottles into decorative vases. Upcycling requires less energy and fewer resources than recycling and often results in a unique, one-of-a-kind item.

Upcycling Examples and Ideas

Let your imagination run wild — there are limitless possibilities when it comes to upcycling projects! Here are a few upcycling ideas to inspire you:

Home Decor: Use mason jars as light fixtures or vases. Transform an old window frame into a mirror or a picture frame.
Furniture: Turn an old dresser into a kitchen island by adding a butcher block top. Repurpose a wooden pallet into a coffee table with some sanding and a fresh coat of paint.
Fashion: Upcycle old clothes by combining fabrics to create new garments or accessories such as tote bags or scarves.
Art: Create wall art from scrap wood, metal, or other discarded materials. Old magazines can be turned into intricate collages or paper beads.

The Benefits of Upcycling

Upcycling offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for those interested in sustainability and creativity:

Environmental Impact: Upcycling helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. By giving new life to items that might otherwise be discarded, upcycling conserves natural resources and reduces the demand for new raw materials.
Energy Conservation: Upcycling requires less energy than recycling or manufacturing new products. Since the items are not broken down into raw materials, the energy-intensive processes involved in recycling or production are avoided.
Creativity and Personalization: Upcycling allows you to express your creativity and create something unique. Each upcycled item is one of a kind, reflecting the individual’s vision and craftsmanship.

Upcycling Tips for Beginners

Getting started with upcycling is easier than you might think. Here’s how you can begin your journey into this creative and sustainable practice:

Know where to find materials: Look around your home for items you no longer use, visit thrift stores or garage sales, explore online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Freecycle, or check out our retail warehouse for items such as doors, windows, and cabinets. We offer a wide range of appliances, materials, and fixtures, all salvaged from deconstruction projects.
Acquire tools and skills: Begin with basic projects, then expand your skills through YouTube tutorials, online courses, and local workshops.
Seek inspiration: Browse platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, or join upcycling communities and forums for fresh ideas and tips.

The ReUse People (TRP): Your Source for Upcycling Materials

Visit TRP’s retail warehouse to explore our inventory and find the perfect pieces for your next upcycling project. Not only will you be supporting a sustainable practice, but you’ll also be contributing to the circular economy by reusing and repurposing items that might otherwise end up in landfills. So why not start your upcycling journey today? Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a curious beginner, there’s no better time to dive into the world of upcycling.

The global economy is undergoing a transformative shift as traditional linear models of production and consumption are increasingly giving way to more sustainable and efficient alternatives. At the forefront of this evolution is the concept of the circular economy, which is centered on the principles of reuse, regeneration, and minimization of waste. In this article, we’ll dig into this system and explore its far-reaching benefits.

What Is a Circular Economy?

A circular economy is an economic model that prioritizes eliminating waste and using resources sustainably so that they’re available for the future. It contrasts sharply with the linear economy, where resources are extracted, turned into products, and then discarded after use. In a circular economy, materials are kept in use for as long as possible through strategies such as recycling, refurbishing, and reusing. The goal is to create a closed-loop system where products, materials, and resources are continuously circulated within the economy, reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing environmental impact.

Real-World Examples of the Circular Economy

Clothing and Textiles

Some clothing companies have embraced circular economy principles by offering recycling programs for old clothing. Patagonia, for example, encourages customers to return worn-out garments, which are then refurbished, resold, or recycled into new products. This approach not only reduces waste but also lessens the demand for raw materials such as cotton and synthetic fibers.

Electronics

Tech giants such as Apple have implemented take-back programs where consumers can return old devices for recycling or refurbishing. Apple’s "Trade-In" program allows customers to exchange their used devices for credit toward a new purchase. The company then refurbishes the returned devices for resale or harvests valuable materials such as gold and aluminum for reuse in new products.

Construction

The construction industry is notorious for generating massive amounts of waste, but the circular economy is making inroads here too. Deconstruction, rather than demolition, allows building materials such as wood, metal, and concrete — along with items like appliances, doors, windows, and more — to be reclaimed and reused. The ReUse People specializes in this area, diverting thousands of tons of building materials from landfills each year and making them available for new projects and new life.

The Benefits of a Circular Economy

Environmental sustainability: The circular economy helps reduce environmental impact by keeping products and materials in use longer, which decreases the need for raw material extraction. This approach promotes recycling and reuse, leading to less waste and reduced strain on landfills.
Economic growth: Adopting a circular economy creates new business models like repair services and product-as-a-service, fostering job growth. It also helps businesses reduce costs through improved resource efficiency and lowers material expenses.
Resource efficiency: The circular economy encourages designing products with end-of-life in mind, making materials easier to recover and reuse. This approach reduces dependence on finite resources, conserving valuable materials like rare earth metals.
Innovation and competitiveness: Businesses embracing the circular economy drive innovation by rethinking product design and business models. This can lead to more sustainable solutions and provide a competitive edge in meeting consumer demand for eco-friendly products and stricter regulations.
Enhanced brand reputation: Companies adopting circular practices can boost their brand reputation as sustainability becomes a priority for consumers. By participating in recycling initiatives and promoting eco-friendly efforts, businesses can attract environmentally conscious customers and build loyalty.

The ReUse People: A Champion of the Circular Economy

Organizations such as The ReUse People (TRP) are playing a crucial role in advancing the circular economy by promoting the reuse of building materials. By offering deconstruction services and making reclaimed materials available for new projects, TRP helps reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower the environmental impact of construction. Donate today to support our work, accelerate the transition to a circular economy, and ensure a more sustainable future for all.

The circular economy is not just a trend; it is a necessary shift toward a more sustainable and resilient future. By embracing reuse and resource efficiency, we can create a world where economic growth is decoupled from environmental degradation and the products we use today become the raw materials of tomorrow.

In the battle against waste and environmental degradation, the mantra “reduce, reuse, recycle” is a familiar rallying cry. While all three components are crucial, reuse stands out as a particularly effective strategy. This article explores why reuse is so important and how it can make a significant impact on our environment and economy.

Understanding Reuse in the Context of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”

The “reduce, reuse, recycle” hierarchy is a guide for waste management, with each step representing a different approach to minimizing environmental impact:

Reduce: Consume and produce less to minimize waste generation.
Reuse: Use items multiple times or repurpose them for different uses.
Recycle: Process materials to create new products.

While many people are familiar with the three Rs, some remain unaware that the order of these three words is intentional, listing the strategies from most to least environmental impact. Reduction is ultimately the most impactful strategy for minimizing waste, and reuse is the next best thing. While recycling is beneficial, reuse often provides greater environmental benefits.

The Benefits of Reuse

Environmental Benefits

Conserves natural resources
Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
Minimizes pollution from manufacturing and transportation
Decreases landfill waste

Economic Benefits

Saves money for consumers and businesses
Creates jobs in repair, refurbishment, and secondhand markets
Reduces waste management costs for municipalities

Social Benefits

Promotes a culture of sustainability and resourcefulness
Provides affordable goods to communities
Encourages creativity and innovation in repurposing items

Examples of Reuse in Action

Reuse can be applied to a variety of items, from household goods to building materials. Everyday items like glass jars, old clothing, and furniture can be repurposed or upcycled. Appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators can be repaired or transformed for new uses. In construction, reclaimed wood, bricks, and windows can be reused in new or renovated structures, reducing waste and conserving resources.

The ReUse People: Champions of Building Material Reuse

The ReUse People (TRP) showcases the power of reuse in the construction industry. We are a nonprofit organization specializing in deconstructing houses and buildings, diverting solid waste from landfills, and offering salvaged materials for sale and reuse.

Our work demonstrates the immense potential of reuse in reducing waste and conserving resources. By carefully dismantling structures instead of demolishing them, TRP salvages valuable materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. These materials — ranging from lumber and fixtures to appliances and architectural elements — are then made available for purchase and reuse in new projects. Check out our retail warehouse today!

Reuse is a powerful tool in our efforts to create a more sustainable world. By extending the life of products and materials, we can significantly reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize our environmental impact. From appliances to building materials, the opportunities for reuse are vast and varied.

As consumers, we can embrace reuse by repairing items, finding new purposes for old possessions, and supporting businesses and organizations that prioritize reuse. As a society, we can promote policies and practices that encourage reuse and make it easier for individuals and businesses to participate in the reuse economy.

By prioritizing reuse, we take a crucial step toward a more circular economy, where resources are used efficiently and waste is minimized. In doing so, we not only protect our environment but also create economic opportunities and foster a culture of sustainability that can benefit generations to come.

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, the appeal of used appliances and materials has never been stronger. From vintage charm to eco-friendly practices, incorporating pre-owned items into your home or project offers numerous benefits beyond mere cost savings. Let's explore why used appliances and materials are an excellent choice and where you can find these hidden gems.

The Allure of Pre-Owned

Quality That Stands the Test of Time

Many older appliances and materials were built to last. Unlike some modern counterparts designed with planned obsolescence in mind, vintage items often boast superior craftsmanship and durability. A well-maintained refrigerator from the 1950s or solid wood cabinets from a mid-century home can continue to serve their purpose for decades to come.

Unique Character and Charm

Used appliances and materials often possess a distinct aesthetic that's hard to replicate with new items. Whether it's the sleek lines of a retro stove or the patina of reclaimed wood flooring, these elements add personality and warmth to any space. They tell a story and create a sense of history that mass-produced items simply can't match.

Environmental Benefits

Choosing used items is an eco-conscious decision that helps reduce waste and conserve resources. By giving new life to existing appliances and materials, you're preventing them from ending up in landfills and reducing the demand for new production. This choice contributes to a circular economy and minimizes your carbon footprint.

Support for Local Communities

Purchasing used appliances and materials often means buying from local sellers, salvage yards, or community organizations. This practice supports the local economy and fosters a sense of community connection. It's a way to invest in your neighborhood while finding unique treasures for your home.

Where to Find Used Appliances and Materials

Now that we've explored the benefits, let's look at some of the best sources for used appliances and materials:

Architectural Salvage Yards

These specialized businesses focus on rescuing and reselling high-quality building materials and fixtures from older structures. They're excellent sources for items such as vintage door knobs and hardware, antique light fixtures, period-appropriate trim and molding, and reclaimed wood beams and flooring.

Local Thrift Stores

Local nonprofit thrift and home improvement stores and donation centers sell new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories, and more. As a bonus, proceeds often support housing, community development, or other humanitarian efforts.

Online Marketplaces

Websites and apps such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay can be treasure troves for used appliances and materials. These platforms allow you to search locally or expand your hunt nationwide for specific items.

Estate Sales and Auctions

These events often feature entire households of furnishings and appliances, providing an opportunity to find matched sets or period-specific items.

Antique Shops and Flea Markets

While primarily known for furniture and decor, many of these venues also offer vintage appliances and unique building materials.

The ReUse People Warehouses

One of the most comprehensive sources for used building materials and appliances is The ReUse People (TRP). We are a nonprofit organization that operates warehouses across the United States, stocked with a wide array of items salvaged from deconstructed homes and buildings.

TRP warehouse inventory typically includes:

Appliances
Bathroom fixtures
Doors and windows
Flooring materials
Lighting fixtures
Cabinets and countertops
Architectural elements

By shopping at TRP warehouses, you're not only finding unique items but also helping us reduce landfill waste and promote the reuse of building materials.

Tips for Successful Used Goods Shopping

To make the most of your used appliance and material hunt:

Research before you buy: Understand the item's history, condition, and compatibility with your needs.
Inspect thoroughly: Check for any damage or wear that might affect functionality.
Measure twice: Ensure the item will fit in your space before making a purchase.
Consider restoration: Know that some items may need refurbishing but can be well worth the effort.
Be patient: Realize the perfect item might not be available immediately, but persistence often pays off.

Embracing the Past and Building the Future

Incorporating used appliances and materials into your home or project is more than a practical choice — it's a statement about values. It reflects a commitment to sustainability, an appreciation for craftsmanship, and a desire for uniqueness in an increasingly homogenized world.

By choosing pre-owned items, you're not just furnishing a space; you're continuing a story. Each reclaimed door, vintage stove, or salvaged light fixture carries with it a history and character that enriches your environment.

As you embark on your next home improvement project or appliance upgrade, consider the world of possibilities that used items offer. Visit a TRP warehouse today and find that perfect piece that transforms your space while contributing to a more sustainable future.

TRP hasn’t put out an e-letter (aka The Velvet Crowbar) since June 2018, so I need to start this re-launch with two business updates. First, in case you hadn’t heard, the rumors of my 2018 retirement were greatly exaggerated. Well, okay, the retirement happened but was short-lived. I was back as president of TRP in April of 2019.

The other big change was the termination of TRP’s own deconstruction division. Soon after TRP began to ramp up its deconstruction training for workers, contractors, and the general public, we realized that it would be a mistake to compete with the Bay Area TRP-certified deconstruction contractors (CDCs) we ourselves trained. So, in 2019, we dissolved the deconstruction division and transferred all deconstruction personnel and assets to Marcan Enterprises, our first CDC. To date, the move has worked out very well.

Now, let’s talk about you …

Stuck at home during the pandemic, you may have decided to take on various needed, and probably delayed projects. High on the list of COVID-fostered enterprises is the construction of backyard offices, garden houses, play and schooling shelters for kids, and alternative dwelling units (ADUs). I recently spoke with a craftsman and TRP customer who started a business building ADUs a couple of years ago. He reported being booked solid through May of 2021. And a local Home Depot claims to have sold more prebuilt sheds in the past six months than they normally sell in a year.

The Wall Street Journal recently published an article entitled, “Behold the Sanity Shed.” Featured were places to garden, knit, paint or draw, or even work (yes, work keeps some folks sane). The article included photos and measurements for four such units, including a modest 8x12-foot garden shed and a 12x24-foot office with a front porch. The prices ranged from $9,850 to $31,500.

I browsed through the TRP Oakland warehouse, solicited some excellent advice from Retail Manager Brandy Sosa and came up with prices using comparable salvaged materials. Total materials cost (including paint from a retail store) would be $1,500 to $1,800 for the 8x12 unit and $2,500 to $3,000 for the larger unit, not including electric or plumbing. Add the cost of labor if you don’t want to do the work yourself. Two skilled tradespeople could complete the small unit in five to seven days and the larger one in 10 to12 days. Throw in $300 for truck rental and you still save at least $2,500 on the small unit and almost $15,000 on the larger one (with that kind of savings, you could electrify and plumb the place and still save $5,000 to $8,000).

But listen, the greatest benefit would probably come from building the unit yourself, even if you are not a builder pr carpenter. I’ve read that tackling something completely different for a short period of time is good therapy. Come into the TRP warehouse, walk around and give your imagination free reign. Then do a rough sketch. We can help you fill in the details.

P.S. This marks the re-birth of TRP’s monthly e-letters. As always, I encourage you to send me your comments and suggestions for topics relevant to our growing industry.