Recycling Together
Despite the political rhetoric happening these days the team at CraftWork still thinks climate change is a big deal. As we complete demolition one item that was top of mind was ensuring material we took out of the space could be diverted away from landfills and recycled.
Construction and demolition (C&D) waste is a significant contributor to our landfills and by diverting it for re-use we can achieve the highest and best use for these materials. Currently 50% of materials are required to be diverted, and by 2020 the State of California has set an ambitious goal that 75% of C&D waste is diverted from landfills.
We have been working hard to ensure that as much material as possible can be diverted and we are excited to report that well over 80% of the metal, conduit, wood, and wire we’ve removed from the site we have been able to recycle. In total we have taken nearly one ton of metal alone to be recycled and our backs are feeling it!
While this may be a drop in the bucket when it comes to the big problems we are facing as it relates to climate change we have got to start somewhere. The CraftWork team is also looking at other ways we can help reduce our overall carbon footprint with:
Smart and efficient lighting throughout our space
Commute time reduction from our members previously driving long distances to traditional office space
Solar panels to provide electricity to our space
Compost area for food waste
On top of doing our best to reduce our carbon footprint, one of the other major tenets of CraftWork is to support our local non-profits. We are excited to announce a partnership with Oaks of Hebron who will be providing their Recycling Together Program for our space. This program will ensure that as much waste as possible continues to be diverted from landfills and provides work placement for adults with disabilities.
Oaks of Hebron provides support for developmentally disabled adults throughout Sonoma County. Through their Recycling Together Program they are providing work placement for people who want to learn valuable work skills and interact with the community. According to the US department of labor less than 19% of people with a disability are employed.
CraftWork wants to support our local entrepreneurs, businesses, and creators. However, we also want to support those in our community who need a hand. By working together we can reduce our carbon footprint and provide work for folks in our community looking to help themselves.
You can become a member of the CraftWork community and take advantage of all we have to offer. Please also click the following link to learn more about what the amazing team at Oaks of Hebron does to support our community every day.