Deconstruction has grown by leaps and bounds in the last 10 years, thanks to new for-profit and nonprofit entities throughout the US. The industry has adapted creatively by introducing state and local rules and ordinances, new tools and equipment, new marketing techniques, joint ventures, social enterprises, cost saving and tax credits.

This Web site spotlights innovative deconstruction groups, projects, publications and events. Deconstruction in Action features reliable deconstruction programs, and also profiles staff members who can assist with new projects. Each month, this site will focus on new organizations.

The publications section identifies new materials available to the public and links to the authors and publishers.

ILSR thanks The Reuse People, Second Chance and Dynasty Deconstruction for their assistance in developing this Web site. These organizations are available to answer general or specific questions, which should be sent to nseldman@ilsr.org. Where appropriate, questions and answers will be published here.

Burlington, Vermont is home to the innovative project ReCycle North, which provides clean, pollution free jobs while helping to promote a sustainable environment.  ReCycle North’s program combines a deconstruction company, a household goods thrift store, a building materials supply store, a computer and appliance repair company, and a recycled-materials craft industry to provide jobs and job training while simultaneously diverting salvageable materials from the waste stream and providing used hardware and home goods to the public at affordable prices.  The materials collected through the deconstruction program are sold in the building supply store and used as raw materials for the crafts the project makes and sells; all aspects of the project create employment and provide job training. 

Viability as an Industry

Starting a resource recovery park or a reuse/salvage industry is a viable option for many communities looking to attract investment and create jobs in their areas.  ReCycle North started in 1991 with a budget of just $1,000 and a staff of one paid employee.  The first year, they netted $77,000 in sales of reused materials.  Since their inception, they have grown by over 25% each year.  In 2007, they have a budget of roughly $2.5 million and employ 46 people.  Even as a non-profit enterprise, many aspects of ReCycle North are still replicable by those looking to start for-profit companies.  Lisa Winkler, director of development, explains that “nonprofits may have a different responsibility to their stakeholders than for-profits, but don’t necessarily run on the assumption of not making a profit. We have as one of our goals to begin increasing our income vs. expenses each year so that we have operating funds earn interest and be available for emergencies and other expenses. Because of the social entrepreneurial aspect of many of our programs, deconstruction, waste not products, appliance repair and service, many of our programs could be adapted to a business model.”