The circular economy has become a popular solution to combatting the harsh realities of single-use consumerism and the impacts of climate change. It is a growing market based on reuse, in which products or waste are recycled and brought back into the economy instead of being disposed or discarded. This is a trending market in the fashion, marketing, and renewable energy industries; however, the Center for EcoTechnology (CET) has uniquely applied the circular economy to remodeling and renovations.
CET is a non-profit organization in the waste and energy industries dedicated to sustainability. For over 50 years, it has been helping people and businesses reduce their environmental impact by offering a way to handle construction and demolition waste. Specifically, CET works directly with contractors to facilitate deconstruction (the careful dismantling of building materials), picks up deconstructed materials, and lists these materials for sale at their reuse store: EcoBuilding Bargains.
A look at EcoBuilding Bargains, provided by the Center for EcoTechnology (CET) | Vimeo
CET’s process is smooth, convenient, and efficient. In addition to providing personalized support and ensuring reduced disposal costs, CET collects deconstructed materials from the site for free, allowing donors to save time and money. Also, as a non-profit, CET provides a receipt that may qualify for a tax deduction.
CET handles pickups within a 150-mile radius of Springfield, Massachusetts, but people living throughout the U.S. and the world can still get involved by ordering materials from EcoBuilding Bargain’s website. The store accepts a variety of materials and products, including kitchen cabinets, countertops, sinks, and home appliances less than seven years of age. It will also take light fixtures, furniture, antique items, windows and doors, surplus construction material, and much more. Donating deconstructed materials to the store encourages continued use rather than excessive waste and makes home improvement more affordable to more people.
