Do you exhibit in Las Vegas?

by Patti Shock
Professor, UNLV Hotel College

I recently had the opportunity to tour the warehouse of Repurpose America. I have always been a supporter of green initiatives, but seeing what Zachary Delbex and his team are doing in a small warehouse just west of The Strip was a real eye-opener for me.

Zack started out as a Teamster. He was appalled by the waste he saw during the tear down of trade shows. So, he started exploring ways to not only recycle, but to repurpose materials that are not recyclable. These materials included vinyl signs, plexiglass, foamcore, magnetic, swag bags, etc. Many exhibitors also discard product and other in-booth items, rather than pay shipping, storage and other costs associated with taking them back to their own facilities in other cities.

He is repurposing vinyl signs into swag bags, badge holders, wallets, and other items. I saw a couple of dozen desk chairs, stacks of potting soil (from a garden show), a shelf full of bicycle helmets. They take décor from special or catered events. The list of items goes on and on.

Where does the stuff go? They don’t sell it. It goes to community organizations that have a need. And, he is hiring veterans and the disadvantaged to create the items.

How can you help? It will cost you nothing to contact Zack for pickup. When you are in town, go see the warehouse. zds@greenervegas.org 702/372-0986