The impacts of climate change are being increasingly felt around the world. At the same time, people are feeling a financial pinch in a turbulent economic period.
Thrifting is a powerful, accessible and enjoyable way to make a positive impact, both on the Earth and on your bank balance. But why does buying used goods matter so much? And how can you get started with sustainable thrifting?
Why Secondhand Shopping Matters for the Planet
The modern, developed world has long been a consumer-driven society. Today, however, social media trends and constant ad consumption have led to a vast overproduction of goods. Many of these are low-quality, destined to end up in a landfill. Fast fashion alone accounts for 10% of global emissions, with 85% of purchases swiftly discarded.
Everything manufactured has an environmental cost, using up water and energy. When you buy secondhand, you directly combat overproduction and waste. Because these items are cheaper than new, you also save money.
7 Tips for Eco-Friendly Thrifting
Buying used goods is an excellent start, but to truly reduce your carbon footprint, go a few steps further. Here’s how to ensure your purchasing strategy has long-term benefits for you and the environment.
1. Think Beyond Your Closet
Although fast fashion is a major problem, thrifting isn’t just about clothing. Shop for secondhand furniture, books, home decor or electronics. This reduces the need for new manufacturing and prevents bulky items from ending up in landfills. With purchases like a bike costing perhaps half of its new price, you get a bargain as well as a big boost to your conscience.
2. Learn Basic Mending and DIY Skills
By nature, many used goods are imperfect. However, if you learn basic mending skills — whether sewing or handyman-type — then you can give your finds a new lease of life.
Often, simply fixing up a hem or sewing on new buttons can save a garment, while a thrifted cabinet might just need new handles or a replacement drawer slide. If you have the ability, you can keep an even wider range of products out of landfills.
3. Get Creative With Upcycling
Upcycling is a fun and inventive way to turn a find into something more to your taste — or even repurpose it entirely. For example, a storage basket could become a lampshade or a pile of secondhand jeans could become a useful pocket organizer to hang on your wall.
The only limit is your imagination. As with mending, you will also be embracing options other people will overlook.
4. Choose Durable, Natural Materials
If you can salvage a synthetic item and make good use of it, that’s excellent. Over the longer term, however, prioritize durable, natural materials in your thrift shopping. If you buy a donated garment with synthetic fibers, it will shed microplastics in your laundry water, which in turn will head into the wider water system.
The same applies to household goods. Something made from natural materials may have many owners before biodegrading. When you eventually pass it on, you will prevent further unnecessary new purchases.
5. Donate Your Unwanted Possessions Responsibly
Thrifting is part of the circular economy. Close the circle by donating what no longer serves you. If you are moving home or decluttering, consider donating anything you haven’t used or enjoyed within the last year — a useful rule of thumb for measuring its worth to you.
6. Shop With a Purpose
Keep a running list of items you genuinely need and are considering buying new. Check it every time you visit a thrift store or look at online marketplaces. It’s easy to forget the secondhand strategy when you do require something, but having a list will remind you that this is a long-term way to shop, not just a fun, creative project.
7. Develop the Habit
Every time you purchase something used, you are making a contribution. Evidence shows that taking small, everyday actions is an effective way to reduce climate anxiety because, by taking action, you feel a sense of agency. Keep going — develop a thrifting mindset.
Small Habits, Big Difference
Shopping secondhand isn’t just about finding unique, exciting items for your home — although you can. More importantly, you are actively reducing waste, conserving resources and casting a vote for a healthier planet.
Your choices can create a ripple effect, proving that small, sustainable habits can contribute to significant, positive change.
