Spring is the perfect time to declutter and refresh our homes and businesses. But if we’re not careful, a clear-out can lead to unnecessary waste going to landfill.
If you are thinking about throwing something away, ask yourself, could this item be repurposed, repaired, reused, or recycled? Exploring these options first can significantly reduce waste and save money.
Repurposing means finding a new use for something that’s reached the end of its original purpose. With a bit of creativity, everyday items can be transformed – old furniture refreshed, jars reused as lanterns, old teacups made into bird feeders or an old washing machine drum as a fire pit for the garden – the possibilities are endless!
Repairing items is another great way to cut waste. Clothing, electronics, furniture and appliances can often be fixed and the fraction of the cost of a replacement. For example, reproofing and retaping a Gortex jacket costs roughly £30 for materials, as opposed to buying a new waterproof jacket for £200+.
Always check warranties first and contact the manufacturer where possible. However, if you’re confident tackling repairs yourself, online resources such as www.youtube.com, www.ifixit.com and www.espares.co.uk offer step-by-step guides to make repairs simple. If you require professional repairers, look for a local repair shop or tradesperson and check their reviews.
Reusing items, either for their original purpose or a new one, keeps them in circulation without major processing. Donating to charity shops or reuse schemes helps others while diverting items from landfill. Buying second-hand is just as important, supporting a circular economy through charity shops, vintage stores, car boot sales and online marketplaces. eBay, Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace are great places to search for and sell used items of all types.
Recycling should come last, once all other options have been considered. When recycling, make sure you understand local guidelines, recycling symbols and plastic codes to ensure materials are processed correctly.
This spring, as you declutter, take a moment to consider where your unwanted items will end up. Making thoughtful choices benefits the planet. And often your budget too.
