Resource Central expands building materials reuse and free pickups

Spring cleaning and garage decluttering just got a little easier in Boulder thanks to a local nonprofit.

Resource Central, a conservation-focused nonprofit based in Boulder, just completed a major expansion of its building materials reuse program. It is now able to accept increased donations of tools that are no longer needed and leftover lumber, cabinets, appliances, and construction supplies that local families can use for inexpensive home repairs or upgrades.

After many years of planning and fundraising, the nonprofit just completed a $3 million facility upgrade to improve conditions for community members and staff and to increase capacity.

“We’re creating a community culture shift where people think of reusing materials first,” said Neal Lurie, president of Resource Central. “It’s more affordable than manufacturing new ones and less polluting. This facility expansion is a huge step forward.”

The last major components were completed earlier this week including a new 25 kW solar electric system to power the facility with renewable energy and a covered donation intake area to reduce weather impacts.

In the past, snow and rain often damaged materials in the open-air facility and the hot summer sun cooked the asphalt materials yard. The newly covered facility provides shade, improves safety, and expands racking to make more materials available to the community. Larger materials can be picked up free of charge.

“Together we’re building a national model for reducing waste and tackling climate change,” Lurie added.

Community members can donate building materials and browse the new reuse facility at 6400 Arapahoe Rd in Boulder, Monday through Saturday 9am-5pm.

 

About Resource Central:
Founded in 1976, Resource Central is an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to putting conservation into action.  Its programs have helped more than 700,000 people save water, reduce waste, and conserve energy.  Learn more at ResourceCentral.org.

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