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The Institute for Local Self-Reliance’s (ILSR’s) 1998 pilot project in Hartford, Connecticut -conducted in conjunction with the Hartford Housing Authority, Manafort Brothers Construction Company, and the Laborers International Union, proved that deconstruction Is a low-cost alternative or complement to demolition. According to data gathered and analyzed from the Hartford project, trained workers can deconstruct a building at a … Read More
Compost yard trimmings Only those programs with comprehensive composting of segregated organics have achieved very high levels of materials recovery. Target a wide range of materials For a community to recover a high percentage of its total waste, it must target a variety of materials. Targeting only two or three materials (for example, newspapers, bottles, cans) … Read More
This report examines major solid waste issues facing the nation’s capital and offers recommendations for making ecologically sound and cost-effective improvements that build community and entrepreneuralism. The report includes recommendations on recycling, trash collection routes and vehicles, waste transfer stations, and retraining city workers. by Neil Seldman Download PDF File (2.52 MB)
This report profiles six model reuse operations and seven programs that collect reusable goods from households. Each profile documents materials handled, marketing information, process and equipment utilized, costs, and replicability. The report also details job creation and other community benefits of reuse. View Introduction by Brenda Platt ISBN 0-917582-95-0, LC 97-1338 Download PDF File (8.92 MB)
Because computers become obsolete so swiftly, they are often discarded with many or all working components. This report provides contact information on 150 computer recovery facilities as well as in-depth profiles of the operating experiences of 13 that focus on computer reuse. Operations profiled are all replicable and many are interested in starting similar enterprises in … Read More
By documenting 10 programs that collect discarded textiles from households, this reports shows how to integrate textiles into existing recycling programs. Key tips for replication (such as partnering with local charities) are highlighted. Appendices provide sample outreach materials and list companies accepting municipal textiles. by Brenda Platt ISBN 0-917582-93-4, LC 97-3520 Download PDF (17.7 MB)
While pallet repair businesses are becoming more common, many pallets are still discarded without repair or salvage. This report lists 31 pallet reuse businesses interested in expanding, and documents jobs through pallet recovery. Profiles of five enterprises detail sources of pallets, repair equipment and process, and more. An appendix lists 193 pallet recovery facilities. View Introduction by … Read More
by Neil N. Seldman– Institute for Local Self-Reliance December 1996 One would think that recycling, like motherhood and apple pie, would be an activity beyond reproach. After all, an enterprise that requires less than a minute a day, that makes us feel good about ourselves, that reduces pollution and saves energy would seem to have a … Read More
This report, for the Mercer Citizens for Public Accountability, helped defeat the Mercer County (NJ) waste incinerator. It includes a discussion of other incinerators that have fallen far short of their developer, consultant, and government expectations. by Brenda Platt Download PDF File
