What is Creative Reuse?

Creative Reuse (also known as upcycling or repurposing), is when the addition of creativity to an already manufactured item brings a new function. A CD jewel case can become a bird feeder, wine corks turned into a cork board, a t-shirt transformed into a rug. (as defined by The Reuse Alliance)

Creative Reuses Centers, like SCRAP, collect discarded materials (see our list) from the public that can be reused and given new life. Many centers resell these items to the public for a bargain or donate them to teachers, organizations or other groups for further reuse.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

• Educators can stretch their budgets by purchasing affordable and unique materials
• Kids can learn about reuse in a fun, playful and diverse environment
• The local creative community will have access to inexpensive, quality materials
• Thousands of pounds of useable materials will be diverted from the landfill
• Households, manufacturers and businesses will have a hub to donate unwanted materials (that otherwise get dumped)
• Centers can create green collar jobs and volunteer opportunities—and support grassroots economic development

SCRAP is dedicated to developing creative reuse centers around the country. If you would like more information about our SCRAP Network, please check see our Getting Started page.