Fashion shouldn't cost the earth. Buying second hand and pre loved clothing is a win win for the people and the planet. Shopping sustainable is all about reducing demand for fast fashion and doing our bit to reduce the impacts fast fashion has on our environment. As consumers we have an essential role in changing the way we shop to become more sustainable.
Buyingp re-loved is more sustainable
Buying clothes from charity shops not only supports the charity but also supports the planet and the people. Buying second hand slows down the fast fashion cycle and the demands on low-paid workers within the supply chain. With the UK being the fourth largest producer of textile waste in Europe, producing 206.456 tonnes of textile waste in a year, shopping second hand clothing saves clothing from ending up in landfill sites and extends the product lifecycle.
Buying pre-loved saves resources
The fashion industry is criticised for its unsustainable use of water, land, fossil fuels and energy, along with manufacturing processes associated with toxic chemicals, waste and pollution, and unethical labour practices. Fast fashion focuses on speed and low costs in order to deliver frequent new collections inspired by catwalk looks or celebrity styles. It is particularly bad for the environment. As pressure to reduce cost and the time it takes to get a product from design to shop floor increases, environmental corners are more likely to be cut. Buying second hand means we can add items to our wardrobe without using additional resources in the manufacturing process.
Buying pre-loved saves you money
A huge benefit of shopping second hand is that it will save you a lot of money. Buying second hand clothes allows you to find great quality clothing pieces for a fraction of the retail price, a win for the consumer and a win for the charity.
Buying pre-loved allows you to find unique pieces
Shopping second hand clothing is a great way to find beautifully unique, one of a kind pieces. The vast majority of items in charity shops are completely unique and you will always find something to fall in love with.
Buying pre-loved helps support good causes
Shopping second hand not only supports the planet but supports charities and organisations. When you shop or donate to our Willow Burn charity shops you are supporting our hospice services which help people in County Durham living with life-limiting illnesses. Whether you shop/donate to our stores or visit our Willow Burn Café you are helping support Willow Burn.
To find out more about the Willow Burn Hospice shops visit: Retail at Willow Burn
