This week’s column by Otley 2030 is about the small and simple changes we can make to reduce our carbon footprint and save money too.

WEEK 9: BUY SECOND HAND

Last week we wrote about buying fewer clothes and wearing what’s already in our wardrobes. This week, we continue the theme with the advantages of buying second-hand. Second hand, used, pre-loved, pre-owned: the words create different associations for each of us. We may remember inheriting hand-me-downs as children with fondness or with disappointment, and contrast this with the excitement of getting something brand new, so a change in outlook may be needed to embrace buying used items. Sometimes, a new item of clothing makes us feel great. Sometimes we really do need to replace something that has worn out, or dress for a special occasion. But often, buying second-hand will do just as well.

WHY BUY SECOND HAND?

Recycled clothes reduce landfill waste; the more times an item of clothing is worn, the less wasteful it is. Buying second-hand is cheaper; while ‘fast fashion’ is incredibly low cost, often a used item can be better quality for the same price or less. And it is not just clothes. Second-hand, solid wood furniture is often more durable and cheaper than its new equivalent. Every new item bought has an environmental impact, from the extraction and production of the raw materials to manufacturing and transportation. Toxic chemicals are used in the production of dyes for clothes. Plastic used in some clothing and household items comes from oil. Much wood production destroys natural habitats and indigenous lands. Buying things second hand may reduce the demand to create new products. There is also a human cost, where the comparatively low price for the consumer often comes at a cost to the people (mainly women living outside the global north) who make the clothes and who still suffer exploitation: long hours, dangerous working conditions, extremely low pay and a low quality of life.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

When you need something, think about buying second-hand first. Otley’s charity shops and 20p shop stock a good range everyday items and eBay is particularly good for finding used fashion bargains. For weddings and formal occasions, try Jenni’s Dresser dress agency, on Cross Green. Items we have recently found second hand in Otley include a wedding outfit, summer work clothes, plant-pot holders, shot glasses, a kitchen container for wooden spoons, an oven-proof glass bowl and kitchen scales. If you only make one change this week, try to buy one thing you need second hand. To find out more about Otley 2030, go to www.otley2030.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram: @otley2030