Why repurpose?

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Repurposing is a quickly growing concept that corporations have grabbed a hold of and are doing some amazing things. Carpet manufacturers are recycling old carpet into usable fibers for other applications. A local company, Patagonia (outdoor wear and gear) has come up with an incredible program called “Common Threads” that will repair, repurpose and recycle garments for their customers.

Many are realizing the importance of repurposing as a way to protect our environment. Too many of us have gotten used to disposing things like carpet, clothing or small appliances into landfills–and we all know that has to stop.

Protecting our environment from more waste and more use of resources in no longer a fashionable idea but a necessity. Many see it as a passing trend for “crafty” types but it is far more reaching than adding some paint to book shelves.

But think for a moment…..What else can repurposing do? What is the intrinsic value?

• It breaks the “Just throw it in the trash and buy a new one” habit. Fix it, repurpose it, recycle it or donate it. Our wasteful ways have caught up with us and relearning a new habit isn’t easy, but we have to change.

• Provides a feeling of accomplishment by coming up with a solution or creating something new from something considered useless or disposable.

• Saves money….think “How can I reuse this?” Instead of “Go buy something cheap and toss it when I am done with it”

• It keep us thinking in a resourceful way. That means taking what you already have and creating something useful….your stuff, your space, even repurposing a career.

Repurposing gets us in the habit of becoming resourceful in our lives and relying on our innate skills in a new and useful way. We then change our thinking and know that we can utilize our talents, skills and abilities to create what we need.