WHY HAS REPURPOSING AND UPCYCLING BECOME SO POPULAR? We spoke with organizations built on the philosophy of repurposing and upcycling, including Habitat for Humanity, which has long embraced this philosophy through its 900 ReStore locations across the nation. ReStores are donation centers and home improvement stores that accept donations of new and gently used goods ranging from surplus building materials to appliances, furniture, tools and more. Certain ReStore locations also feature a Deconstruction (Decon) service which was created to help homeowners who are planning to remodel their kitchens offset the high cost of deconstruction. The process is simple. Contact your regional Habitat for Humanity and inquire if the Decon service is provided in your area. If it is and your kitchen cabinets, countertops and appliances are found to be in good working order, they will set up a date for the Decon team of experts to come and carefully clear these items away so they can be resold or recycled. Homeowners save money in the process and receive a tax deduction for items donated.
Asia Bartholomew, a digital marketer for Habitat for Humanity in Charlotte, North Carolina, explains the surge in popularity among Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores and its Decon service is in part due to people being more conscientious about avoiding waste and a desire to leave behind a smaller carbon footprint. Asia also attributes the popularity of the ReStores in general to the current economy noting, “People are looking for more cost-effective options, and are willing to give something a new chance.” We also met with Michael and Annie Murphy, co-founders of Eco Relics, an architectural salvage company in Jacksonville, Florida. With a strong commitment to honoring craftsmanship past and present, their community-focused, green ethos is encapsulated by their motto: “Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose.” The couple agrees that the company has evolved organically. Michael affirms he has had a lifelong passion for “recycling, repurposing and DIY projects.” Annie, a self-described “green warrior” has worked with Michael to shape the type of business that epitomizes the movement toward embracing upcycling and sustainability.
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June 2023
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