Upcycling Companies Give Used Products a Second Life

Upcycling is the process of converting waste and useless materials into something of higher value. Here are some of the most innovative companies that are picking up on the recent upcycling trend.

ReGeared is an independently owned studio in Dallas, Texas that makes products from reclaimed wood and bicycle parts. Founded by Rachel Spire, the company was born from the inabililty to see good things go to landfills and the need for functional furniture. Spire’s nine years of experience as a custom furniture and cabinetry designer have influenced these upcycled products. Products include everything from jewelry and picture frames to clocks and benches.

BottleHood, a San Diego based upcycling company, creates eco-friendly glassware and jewelry from wine, beer, liquor and soda bottles recycled in the community. The company also uses the cold method of glass making which produces a lower carbon footprint. BottleHood was created “out of a passion to create local jobs, stimulate our local retail economy and help our environment, BottleHood’s success is a reflection of neighborhood sentiment and support for what BottleHood stands for… a pride in our neighborhood, our local craftsmen and entrepreneurs, and our social responsibility.”

Alchemy Goods, whose motto is “turning useless into useful,” is a company that takes upcycling to the next level. Alchemy Goods transforms old seatbelts, advertising banners and old inner tubes into amazing bags. All products are waterproof and the durable rubber is practically stain resistant. A personal favorite is the Urban Messenger Bag.

SkiChair is an upcycling company whose motto is “Play in Style, Rest in Style.” The company uses recycled sports equipment such as old skis, hockey sticks and skateboards to manufacture chairs, benches, swings and coat racks. The products are all innovative and functional, taking outdoor furniture in a new direction.

Last but not least is Deckstool, a Pennsylvania based business which utilizes skateboard parts to make products ranging from stools and benches to key-chains and magnets. The company recycles broken skateboards, using as much of the skateboard as possible in order to minimize waste.

Whether you are a skateboard fanatic ...

---