The following are some facts about the planet and waste. As you likely know, at present, about 8.2 billion people are living on Earth. But did you know that one of the biggest contributors to waste is the fashion industry? It creates 100 to 150 billion articles of clothing for 8.2 billion people. If you do some quick math, that’s roughly 12.2 pieces of clothing for every person. These staggering facts are why the reuse economy is emerging as an alternative.
The Cost of Our Throwaway Culture
Environmental destruction and overconsumption are similar to something that happened in the past. For generations and decades, the tobacco industry denied the health risks of smoking. There simply was too much profit. The same happens today with fast fashion, the broader fashion industry, and even with waste colonialism. We can’t continue on the path of destroying the planet and being okay with human and environmental loss due to climate change. The reuse economy is the path to saving what we have.
The Reuse Economy in Action
If you believe, like our team does, that there’s no need for excessive overconsumption, then join others who are moving to a more mindful existence through the reuse economy. So, before we go any further, let’s define the reuse economy and explain why it’s a more viable alternative. The reuse economy is founded on simple principles that directly oppose the “take-make-dispose” linear economic model currently practiced by corporations. The reuse or circular economy is all about sustainability.
1. Living in a Circular Economy
Unlike traditional business and social economics, which are linear, the reuse economy operates circularly. In other words, what’s made is reused. It’s the foundation of our social enterprise, as seen in our sneaker reuse program. Essentially, we collect sneakers from retailers, gyms, and others, redirecting athletic shoes to developing nations and small business owners. Those activities keep the sneakers out of landfills for longer periods, and eventually, other uses are found for the footwear, such as repurposing them into art.
2. Consumer Choice as Environmental Action
One of the best outcomes when consumers realize they don’t have to bend to the whims of corporate manipulation that just wants us to buy is that it creates a mind shift. Each of us has the power to make choices that work better for us. For instance, we could choose to buy pre-owned sneakers instead of expensive new ones, or purchase vintage and thrift clothing items that are tailored and look great. Every time we choose to participate in the reuse economy, we’re voting for a better path.
3. Measurable Benefits of Reuse Platforms
Finally, the reuse economy is founded on the principle of impact, which isn’t the case for the linear “take-make-dispose” model. Every time we purchase something second-hand, we’re choosing not to expend incredible energy, water, and logistics waste on a new product. When we focus on minimizing waste, we’re making a global impact. It’s a win for the planet because we conserve energy, but we also make a social impact by practicing conscious consumption.
Craftsmanship and Connection in the Reuse Economy
As was mentioned earlier, the reuse economy is about reconnecting with ideas such as craftsmanship. High-quality clothing created from organic materials was left behind somewhere along the line as we rushed to cheap and disposable alternatives. But there was a time when tailors and craftspeople created art in fashion, for example. When you lean into the circular economy, you’re making room for artists and visionaries to remake what was once common and of much better quality and beauty.
Overcoming Challenges Toward a Better Path
Embracing the circular economy goes beyond manufacturers and corporations transitioning from a linear business model. It also takes consumers who hold the strings to their profits. We need to push for the tipping point to overcome the notion that second-hand means second-rate. That’s just not the case with many products. Moreover, we have to overcome the deeply ingrained narratives in our society that equate success with purchasing expensive brands and achieving status.
We need to flip the script as consumers and recognize that luxury isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality, carefully selected items. Think of a pair of jeans. Most of us have a pair in our closets. If you bought vintage jeans, then the chances are that they look great. Think of the pair that you bought for $10 or $20. Which pair is your favorite? Which pair lasts through washes? And which pair feels better? The chances are that it’s the vintage pair, and there’s a reason for it. It’s just better and more luxurious.
We’re very fortunate to live at a time of great innovation and disruption. Through digital platforms, consumers can connect with repair cafes for tech and even subscription models for clothing in support of reuse. The scoop is that the reuse economy isn’t theoretical. It’s here. And it’s creating new solutions and approaches for consumers that are convenient and appealing. Together, we can push against throwaway culture and create a win/win economy that works for the planet, the whole, and not the few.
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