Local Events Promote Reuse for Greener Future

Before you toss out that lamp that won’t turn on or that old, shabby dresser from the spare bedroom, consider giving them a chance at a second life. Every old thing lying around the house has the potential to make a comeback; either through repair or creative reuse. Making choices that reduce waste, save resources and bring a bit of fresh energy to the “stuff” around us is a small and impactful way to create a greener future.

In April, Sustainable Westerville will host two events that promote sustainable practices for community members: the Repair Cafe and ReUse-A-Palooza.

The Repair Cafe will feature experts who will voluntarily help repair a wide variety of household items; free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand to use and to purchase, if needed. Those visiting the Repair Cafe can bring along broken items, like lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes or toys.

ReUse-A-Palooza is a free curbside exchange that was created to keep reusable items out of landfills and give them a new home and purpose. Furniture, toys, clothing, tools and other household items are all welcome. Residents can participate by placing clean, usable items curbside so others may take what they need, which extends the lifespan of the discarded items.

“We throw out mountains of items everyday,” said Bethany Vosburg-Bluem, events chair for Sustainable Westerville. “Things which practically have nothing wrong with them can easily find new life after a simple repair or a creative reuse.”

The Repair Cafe will be held on April 20 from 9 a.m. to noon and the ReUse-A-Palooza will be held on April 27 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Both events will reoccur in the fall. For more information visit www.sustainablewesterville.org