Definition and Product of the Week 09.04.2010

by Hilary Sopata

Each Saturday, we post a definition and a product of the week so that you can learn more about going green and what makes particular products green. This week, we’ll define DOWNCYCLING and the product of the week is AMERICAN BARN COMPANY.  

Definition: DOWNCYCLING (in our own words)  

Downcycling is a term used to describe an item that is being reused or remodeled into another item.  For instance, when you recycle your blue jeans and a company makes them into insulation, that is downcycling.  When you take the wood from an old barn or an old pier and make it into furniture, that is another example of downcycling.  This is different from glass beverage bottles which are recycled and often made into the same thing again.  Downcycled products will eventually make it to the landfill but are delayed by further use in the meantime.

Product of the Week: AMERICAN BARN COMPANY

If you’ve ever driven through the rural Midwestern United States, then you’ve probably seen old, dilapidated barns about ready to fall over.  The American Barn Company’s motto is, “bringing new life to old wood.”  They disassemble old wooden barns and turn them into accessories like flooring or book-ends and of course, furniture which can be customized.  What a great way to keep great wood out of landfills for a while!

For more information about ordering this product or any of the products mentioned on our blog, contact Interior Visions Designs at 847.825.0450.  

Source: American Barn Company’s Website http://www.americanbarncompany.com/

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