A Southern Nonprofit's Efforts to Preserve Building Materials

In Savannah, Georgia, a nonprofit organization called Re:Purpose Savannah is dedicated to salvaging valuable materials from historic buildings facing demolition. Mae Bowley, the executive director, is passionate about preserving old building materials and preventing them from ending up in landfills. The organization focuses on convincing building owners to deconstruct structures instead of demolishing them, with the goal of reducing the estimated 145 million tons of waste from the construction and demolition industry that are sent to U.S. landfills annually. Re:Purpose Savannah's warehouse offers a variety of salvaged items, including wood, hinges, doorknobs, clawfoot tubs, and window frames, all of which have been saved from being discarded. Their efforts have resulted in the preservation of 3,000 tons of materials over five years, contributing to sustainable construction practices and reducing waste. The organization's team, primarily composed of women, aims to break barriers in the male-dominated construction industry and provide opportunities for women to pursue rewarding careers. By promoting deconstruction over traditional demolition methods, Re:Purpose Savannah highlights the value of preserving historical and architectural elements. The organization's work reflects a commitment to intentional and sustainable practices, ultimately contributing to the conservation of history and the environment.