The following is a list of additional reuse resources. Please make sure to connect with your reuse outlet to make sure they will accept what you have before you deliver it.
Materials Exchanges
Materials Exchanges create an interactive relationship between two parties, set up by a facilitator, or an online database. Material descriptions, quantities & locations are provided and the exchange is setup. Some materials are available in an ongoing stream, while others are a one-time only offer. Northeast Reuse Marketplace is one that serves Massachusetts.
The Great Exchange, actively managed by the non-profit Devens EcoEfficiency Center, facilitates the reuse of unneeded items donated by businesses and institutions. Donated inventories of office furniture and supplies, facilities and safety supplies, packing materials, containers, arts and crafts resources, and much more are accepted and shared with schools, non-profits, and small businesses.
Local Schools or Daycare Facilities
While this may take a little effort, your local school art classes or daycare centers often take things like scraps of paper, fabric and other materials that you would otherwise dispose. With their limited budgets, they may appreciate your clean scraps that students can use creatively.
The Northeast Recycling Council publishes a list of reuse opportunities.
Other Reuse Resources
- Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles (SMART) is an association group that can help you find markets for all types of textiles.
- Check with organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and others that may be able to reuse and sell used clothing, electronics, furniture, and appliances.
- MassDEP lists several resources for donating food in Massachusetts.
- The Furniture Trust is a 501(c)3 non-profit that reinvests unwanted office furnishings back into the community.
- For additional information on reusable transport packaging, powerpoints, and more; visit the EPA’s archived webinar on Greener Packaging – Integrating Reusable Transport Packaging into Your Supply Chain.