On Thursday evening, September 10, over 100 people celebrated the opening of the new headquarters of Save That Stuff, Inc.  Co-owners Erik Levy and Adam Mitchell opened the doors of their new site in Charlestown for all to see by hosting a benefit party for the Sustainable Business Network. The new location provides Save That Stuff with significantly more space, new offices for staff, new storage for their equipment, and soon, a new paper and comingled container sorting facility.  An exciting part of this new expansion is that Save That Stuff has joined a group of businesses at this new location that's developing a Green Marine Industrial Park with plans for on-site renewable energy operations and expanded recycling opportunities.  The new facilities are striking, and it's even more impressive considering this business expansion was completed during our current economic recession.

Save That Stuff is one of the leading green businesses in New England and it has played a pivotal role in supporting local businesses in increasing their recycling practices and reducing their environmental footprint.  Save That Stuff has been a key partner with the nation's foremost green business program focusing on small and mid-sized businesses--the Sustainable Business Leader Program (SBLP).  SBLP worked closely with Save That Stuff to leverage the services it provides which includes on-site audits, zero waste planning services, and full recycling services.  The partnership has greatly enhanced the sustainable practices of over 50 Boston-area businesses.  Erik and Adam are entrepreneurs who live their mission and they've built a company from scratch that now has a team of over 30 staff members-a real life example of how entrepreneurs can create green jobs!  Save That Stuff has become an indispensable player in the work of greening local businesses in greater Boston.

John F. Palmieri, Director of The Boston Redevelopment Authority's Planning and Redevelopment Office kicked off the event by recognizing Save That Stuff for their efforts to grow the recycling industry in theBoston Area, the assistance they provide to businesses and institutions, and their ability to create green jobs.  He also sent congratulations and well wishes from Mayor Menino from the City of Boston who has been very supportive of Save That Stuff. ;

New Acting Director of The Sustainable Business Leadership Program, Peter Crawley also addressed the gathering and outlined the SBLP assessment program. Peter noted that the work of Save That Stuff exemplified the process of "transforming waste into food", thus organically closing the loop regarding the waste stream. He also encouraged attendees to participate in the SBLP assessment program and help spread the word to other potential participants.

Picture #2: Party-goers celebrate Save That Stuff's new location

One of the really fun and educational parts of the evening was the opportunity to see and actually experience some new and exciting modes of transportation.  Paul Elwood from Electric City Cars (e-citycars.com) brought in two electric cars and several electric motor bikes that everyone could test drive.

The program closed with SBN Executive Director, Laury Hammel, thanking Erik and Adam for their environmental leadership and the vital services they provide our communities.  Laury further expressed appreciation for the financial support they have offered.  Not only did Save That Stuff (along with Tech Networks of Boston) provide much of the seed capital needed to initiate the Sustainable Business Leader Program, but the costs of the celebration were all covered by STS and 100% of the revenues went directly to SBN.  This classy soiree raised over $3,000 to help fund the work of the Sustainable Business Network.  And of course, all food and containers were composted and recycled - making it a zero waste event!