St. John’s Island Green Building Association is looking for a spot for its Re-Source Center, a place where the organization will sell donated used and surplus building materials to anyone who wants to shop there.

“The greenest building is one that uses existing materials versus new ones, so the Re-Source Center is a win-win alternative to the cost and impact of buying new – especially given the cost of materials locally,” IGBA Director Karen Vahling said.

Using used or surplus materials will reduce materials going to the landfill, reduce consumption of the earth’s resources and cut down on shipping costs.

The Re-Source Center wants donations of useful construction, household, gardening, and marine items from individuals, and construction or remodeling projects to resell at a fraction of new retail prices.

Vahling explained that even items like one faucet, a light switch cover or six pieces of rebar can be useful to someone.

Since IGBA is a nonprofit organization, donated equipment and materials would be considered a charitable donation and may be tax-deductible. Proceeds will fund IGBA’s operations, educational outreach and other programs that promote green building and environmentally responsible island living.

IGBA needs an easily accessible, commercially zoned parcel or building in a convenient area of the island for the Re-Source Center. The organization is willing to consider all options and offers for a location – from vacant land to an existing building.

“We can start as simply as land for storing materials in containers while we list them at a virtual Re-Source Store on our website, or, we would love to have a building to expand and upgrade into a model green facility at no cost to the owner,” Vahling said.

The Re-Source Center may add other components if space and funding allow, including recycling, erosion control and new green building materials, a Green Education classroom, onsite demonstrations, and possible sharing of space with sustainability-oriented vendors.

IGBA has already received supplier pledges for green improvements, including solar systems and lighting. Community members have contacted IGBA, ready to donate useful construction materials but had to be turned away until a location is found.

“Support and need are evident, but the Re-Source Center needs a home,” Vahling said.

For more information or to suggest a location for the Re-Source Center, call Vahling at 340-227-1110, via email or visit the IGBA website.