A key element to any Emmaus community is the work that it provides. The core business is the recycling of furniture, other options emerge depending upon factors such as market demand and the skills of the Companions.

Why Recycling?

The first Emmaus called itself 'The Rag pickers of Paris'. They earned their living by recycling and selling many of the things which other people threw away. Likewise Emmaus communities today are all involved in recycling, mostly of unwanted furniture. These can be renovated by the companions and sold to the public or gifted to other homeless people when they move onto a place of their own.

The recycling process

Glasgow's recycling market is under-developed. In February 1999 only 2 % of household waste was being recycled. Things have improved significantly since, with the latest figures from the Community Recycling Network of which we are members showing that by 2003 we had got to 4.63% in terms of domestic waste recycling.

Emmaus will make a significant local contribution towards the area achieving the declared Scottish Executive target of 25% of household waste. On average an Emmaus Community will collect 500-750 tonnes of discarded furniture and goods every year. With its core business the collection, renovation and resale of unwanted household goods. Emmaus Glasgow will offer a much needed local focus for recycling in the area.

For preparing furniture before sale there is a fully equipped workshop. We also have a woodchip boiler designed to provide geo-friendly hot water and central heating.