BDF turns used wood into furniture

by Shamar Blunt

As part of its efforts to cut down on the amount of waste being disposed of, members of the Barbados Defence Force (BDF) have implemented a unique recycling project with the overall refurbishment work being done at their St Ann’s Fort base.

Members of the Engineering Company at the BDF have utilized old shipping pallets and transformed these usually discarded pieces of wood into furniture and kitchen fittings to be used predominantly in the canteen and mess hall on the compound.

The Lead BDF artisan in charge of the project Sergeant Peter Gilkes says the project started just before the COVID-19 lockdown, with over 100 pallets being used so far on the project.

“We started the project just before COVID; we had to take a break because of the COVID-19 measures. When the all-clear was given, we restarted the project, and at this stage we are 95 per cent finished hoping to open shortly. [We] had over 150 pallets to start the project, with the assistance of the Barbados Light & Power who donated a number of the pallets from their project in St Lucy [Solar Farm] where their equipment came through the port with some
of the pallets,” he explained.

Sergeant Gilkes admitted that the project has already saved the force thousands of dollars, with the Engineering Company being able to fully build several pieces of furniture and other parts for the canteen, at no extra cost for outside materials.

He added that with Barbados looking to use fully green energy by 2030, other organizations can also look into utilizing used pieces of wood.

“The amount of pallets when I drive around Barbados and see by the hardware stores and wholesale places – you can ask a question, invest some money in minor tools, and start your own business. It’s a lucrative project where you can build planners, tables, chairs, decorate bars, you name it,” he added. (SB)