greenGoat got its start in 2001 when a homeowner watched barely-used framing lumber being discarded as new framing lumber was brought in during a renovation. This frustration led to these discoveries: 1) building owners pay for disposal of *usable* material and for the purchase of replacement material; 2) the resources used to manufacture building materials are lost if the materials are 'retired' before their useful life is done; 3) air and water quality are eroded, particularly in cities, as a result of traditional demolition; and 4) construction scrap and demolition debris occupy 40% of landfill capacity. As Massachusetts (and many other densely populated states) closes landfills, we will pay to export our trash to other states and countries. Enter greenGoat. It offers specifications and advice to architects, teaches builders how to waste less, build with the community and the environment in mind, and save money at the same time. Although it began with a focus on building materials and waste reduction, it now offers a broad range of conservation measures and evolutionary building practices. To date, greenGoat has helped projects save almost $1.7 million in disposal costs. In 2005, it spearheaded a committee for minimizing waste during the Democratic National Convention, bringing the principles of conservation to a national stage. It saved just over 100 tons of building materials from the landfill, donating the reusable materials to inner city non-profits. Re-use is the future of the building industry, and greenGoat is at the forefront. With a budget of about $30,000 and an all-volunteer staff, it has accomplished incredible things. Imagine what they could do with your help.