Embrace sustainability with Second Hand September
What is Second Hand September?
Launched by Oxfam in 2019, Second Hand September encourages people to buy only second-hand clothing for the entire month. The campaign not only helps reduce waste but also raises awareness about the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion.
Why it matters
The global fashion industry produces nearly 1.2 billion tonnes of carbon emissions each year. Less than 1% of the material used to make clothes is being recycled into new items when they are no longer wanted. By buying second-hand we can increase the life of the garments and decrease the impact on our planet.
How to get involved
- look in charity shops
- search sites such as eBay, Vinted and Gumtree
- visit a car boot sale
- hold a clothes swap event where you can swap items with friends
- check out Freegle
Looking for something else?
There are so many things we can buy second hand and Freegle is a great way to save pre-loved items from going to landfill. In fact, in 2023, 360 tonnes of 'stuff' was saved from landfill by Essex residents using Freegle! Find your local Freegle group and give pre-loved items a new lease of life.
For more ways to love your clothes or find other ways to give your things a new lease of life, visit our ‘Ideas’ page.