How Shopping Secondary Is Making Your Earth Primary

It’s not always easy to be eco-friendly, but when it comes to saving money and helping our Earth, I think we can all work together to accomplish this goal. 

According to Vox.com, “Nearly three-fifths of all clothing produced ends up in incinerators or landfills within years of being made.” That doesn’t even account for how LONG it takes for these items to decompose. For example, Nylon fabrics can take around 30-40 years to decompose. By upcycling clothing, you are helping our Earth and decreasing waste in the landfills. 

Here are some additional facts to help you consider shopping secondary: 

• The fashion industry produces and sells somewhere between 80 billion and 150 billion garments a year globally. [Source]

• Leather shoes can take up to 40 years to decompose [Source]

• It can take around 5,000 gallons of water to manufacture just a T-shirt and a pair of jeans. [Source]

• By wearing articles of clothing for nine months or longer, a person can actually reduce their carbon, water, and waste footprint by up to 30 percent. [Source]

Plus, thrifting helps your wallet. Now more than ever, it may be difficult finding the funds to clothe and supply your whole family with necessary items. Shopping at resale stores is cost-effective as most merchandise is marked down around 50-80% from retail price! It isn’t only for clothing either. There are different stores for different needs such as shoes, toys, baby equipment, books, and more! Stores may vary, so I suggest you visit their website to see the savings and merchandise. 

Unsure where to begin? Here are a few places:

• If you’re a parent looking for gently-used baby gear, Once Upon a Child is the store for you

• For tween to teen styles, Plato’s Closet is a great place to start

• Athletes can enjoy merchandise at Play it Again Sports

• Musicians can practice their once-loved instruments at Music Go Round

• For stylish women’s fashion, Style Encore is a store that includes clothing, accessories, designer bags, and more

When it comes to resale shops, there is a shop for everyone!

Even if you are not in the shopping mood right now, you can still help the cause by donating your unwanted clothing and merchandise. Avoid the trash, and look for businesses who are accepting your items earning some cash along the way.

Shopping secondary, donating merchandise, and reducing your carbon footprint are all great ways to make our Earth a priority. Join the cause today!