September isn't just the start of autumn—it's a chance to make a positive impact on the world by rethinking the way we shop and consume. At the heart of this movement is Second-Hand September, a campaign led by Oxfam that encourages us to avoid buying new clothes for 30 days. It's a simple yet powerful way to reduce our carbon footprint, minimize waste, and challenge the fast fashion industry.
Our mission at Sunny Jar Eco Hub is to inspire and empower people to live low-waste lifestyles. By choosing second-hand, we can dress for the world we want—one that values people, planet, and creativity over consumerism.
Why Second-Hand September Matters
The harsh truth behind our fashion industry is that for what we perceive to be 'cheap' clothing, underpaid garment workers and the environment usually bear the ultimate cost. In fact, it is one of the most polluting industries in the world. It’s responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions, water usage, and textile waste. Second-Hand September is a movement that asks us to rethink our shopping habits and consider the environmental impact of our clothing choices. By opting for pre-loved items, we're reducing demand for new products, extending the life of existing garments, and keeping valuable resources out of landfills.
At Sunny Jar Eco Hub, we see second-hand shopping as more than just a sustainable choice—it's an opportunity to be creative with what we have. Just as we love to source second-hand supplies for our office and workshops, we encourage everyone to explore the rich, diverse world of pre-loved fashion and materials.
Sourcing Second-Hand for Sunny Jar Eco Hub
Our office and workshop materials are sourced from a variety of second-hand outlets, supporting
our commitment to sustainability while also saving money. Here’s how we do it:
Charity Shops: connecting with local charity shops is a great way to redistribute excess. Keep in mind that not all donations can be resold. During our borrow-a-bag campaign in 2019 and plastic free Poplar project 2020-23, we found that an overwhelming amount of tote bags were donated, these along with community-made bags could replace the plastic bags given out by the shop/market-stall owners.
Online Platforms: platforms like Vinted, Facebook Marketplace or Ebay are great for sourcing second hand gems. We source our electronics from Back Market.
Community Networks: Having wonderful community networks around us is such a blessing to exchange unused items amongst friends. When we first moved into our office in Poplar, we had access to amazing resources thanks to the lovely people at R-urban. Free MDF boards, tables, chairs and a library of tools to borrow were all supplied for free. Connect with businesses and offer to collect their surplus materials, for example our crafting papers come from a local printing business and some of our fabric come from Poplar Works on the other side of the road!
Our Workshops & Swap Events: Attending swap events is a great way to exchange materials with others. Not only do we keep materials in circulation, but we also foster a sense of community and share creative ideas.
Pict 1 Maud and Kinga upcycling building waste to build office furniture
Pict 2 Repair sessions at Clothes swap with Tower Hamlets council
Pict 3 Upcycled coat by Luna Cohen
Tips for Sourcing Second-Hand and Caring for Your Stuff
Ready to dive into the world of second-hand shopping? Here are some tips to help you make the most of it:
Know What You Need: Before you shop, make a list of the items you're looking for. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys.
Check Quality: Look for well-made items that will stand the test of time. Check seams, zippers, and fabric quality when buying clothing. For furniture and electronics, ensure they are sturdy and in working condition.
Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. A little DIY can transform an item into something unique and personal. A coat of paint, new hardware, or some simple sewing can give second-hand finds a fresh new look. Small stains and alterations for clothes aren't as scary as they seem. If you need any advice on how to fix stains and worn bits on your favourite clothing, we run regular mending sessions. (Next one: Back-to-school uniform mending session is on the 5th of this month)
Be Patient: Finding the perfect item second-hand can take time. Visit shops regularly and keep an open mind—you never know what you might find! We recommend searching for good basic items that will last, whether wooden baby toys or a good coat.
Care for Your Items: To make your second-hand treasures last, take good care of them. Follow washing instructions carefully, repair damaged items, and store them properly. If an item no longer serves you, pass it on to someone else who can use it.
Don't be afraid to ask neighbours, friends or family. Reaching out to your community is one of the most rewarding ways to low-waste living. Large cities like London can be very isolating places. Making the effort to maintain connection with each other is important to our mental health, wallet and the environment too! Why not create WhatsApp groups where you can share, swap and lend each other things.
Conclusion
By choosing Second-Hand, you’re taking a stand against fast fashion and making a commitment to a more sustainable future. At Sunny Jar Eco Hub, we believe that small, mindful choices can have a big impact on the planet. Whether you’re sourcing office supplies, workshop materials, or a new wardrobe, choosing second-hand is a step towards the world we all want to see—a world where resources are valued, waste is minimized, and creativity thrives.
Let’s all dress for the world we want and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future—one pre-loved item at a time.
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