The environmental benefits of thrift shopping
How secondhand style helps save the planet
In a world where trends change by the minute and closets overflow with fast fashion, thrift shopping is a simple, sustainable way to make a difference. From reducing landfill waste to conserving natural resources, every secondhand purchase has the power to protect the planet while saving you money, too.
Continue reading to learn how thrifting helps the environment and why it might just be the future of fashion.
Why thrifting matters for the planet
1. Less waste in landfills
Americans throw away over 11 million tons of clothing every year. [1] Most of it ends up in landfills, where synthetic materials can take hundreds of years to break down. Thrifting keeps clothing in use longer, giving items a second (or third!) life.
2. Fewer resources used
It takes around 7,500 litres of water to make a single pair of jeans, equivalent to the amount of water the average person drinks over a period of seven years. [2] When you buy secondhand, you reduce the demand for new clothing production—and all the water, energy, and raw materials that come with it.
3. Lower pollution levels
Clothing production involves the use of pesticides, toxic dyes, and petroleum-based fabrics. These pollutants can contaminate soil and water, harming ecosystems and communities. Choosing thrifted items helps limit the environmental toll of these chemicals.
Thrifting helps you, too
Saving the planet is awesome—but so is saving money and scoring unique finds! Here’s what’s in it for you:
- Save money: Secondhand items are usually much cheaper than buying new
- Find your style: Thrift stores are treasure troves of one-of-a-kind fashion pieces
- Affordable luxury: Score vintage and designer items without the high price tag
- Feel good: Donating and shopping secondhand supports a more conscious lifestyle
Other ways to give clothes a second life
Not every piece needs to go through a thrift store. Here are a few other ways to keep your clothes out of the trash:
- Donate to shelters or non-profit organizations that directly serve people in need
- Host a clothing swap with friends or coworkers
- Repurpose or repair—old tees make great cleaning cloths!
Related resource:
How to bring your thrift store clothes back to life
A small choice with a big impact
Every thrifted item means fewer resources are used, less pollution is created, and one less thing ends up in a landfill. If each of us made just a few more secondhand choices, the environmental impact would be huge.
Looking for a place to start?
The Sharing Center’s Thrift Store is full of great finds and supports families in need. Every purchase gives back.
Ready to thrift?
Visit us today!
1: Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County
2: United Nations News
