Phoenix-area nonprofit launches program to reduce construction waste
Sep 13, 2018, 4:55 AM
(Pexels photo)
(Pexels photo)
PHOENIX — A Valley non-profit has launched a new program called “Starve The Landfill” in an effort to reduce the amount of material waste created by local construction companies.
Stardust — which operates two home-improvement centers in Mesa and Glendale — sells gently-used, salvaged and surplus building materials to the public at up to 80 percent off through the program.
The goal, Resource Development Manager Jason Carlyle told KTAR News 92.3 FM, is to create a strong community of eco-friendly contractors and suppliers that want to reduce their material waste.
“This helps them reduce their dumpster cost,” he said, “or, maybe, even getting a dumpster from the very get-go at all.”
Carlyle said consumers are not getting non-working or poor-quality materials, either.
“Everything we take is in good working order,” he said. “And it saves you lots of money.”
Carlyle said in order to participate in the program, companies have to sign a pledge stating they’ll redirect reusable building materials with Stardust’s deconstruction and donation pick-up services.
In return, Stardust will provide professional donation services to the companies and its clients.
“This program is important because of the potential it has to create a change in our community,” Carlyle said.
“We want contractors and suppliers to think twice before throwing away reusable building materials and help minimize the waste created.”
Four local companies have partnered with the Starve the Landfill program: Stradlings Cabinets in Gilbert, G.M. Hunt Builders, Iron Doors Arizona, both in Phoenix, and Scottsdale Custom Building Materials.
Carlyle said Stardust diverts five million pounds of reclaimed building materials from the landfill each year and, with this program they will be able to exceed that.
