Sustainable Living: Environmental Benefits of Buying Used Furniture

Willie Dunn
Sustainable Living: Environmental Benefits of Buying Used Furniture

As Oxfam celebrates Second Hand September, we breakdown some of the main benefits of shopping second hand and why it can be important for the planet.

broken washing machine1. Reduces Landfill Waste

Buying used furniture prevents items ending up in landfill, reducing the amount of waste build up and minimising the environmental impact of waste management. If, instead, you are looking to clear some space at home, perhaps consider a free furniture collection from Home Aid first before journeying to the tip.

  

2. Lowers Carbon Footprint

Manufacturing and transporting brand new furniture generates significant carbon emissions. By buying used furniture, you contribute to reducing the energy and emissions associated with production and long-distance international shipping.
Upcycling furniture

3. Encourages Upcycling and Creativity

Purchasing used furniture often inspires upcycling and creative reuse. By refurbishing or repurposing items to your tastes, you extend their life cycle and reduce the need for new resources, all the while bringing a unique and personal touch to your home.


4. Supports a Circular Economy

Buying used furniture is a key component of the circular economy, ensuring items are kept in use for as long as possible. This reduces the need for the manufacturing of new products and promotes a pattern of sustainable consumption.
Deforestation devastation

5. Decreases Deforestation

The demand for new wooden furniture contributes to deforestation, both in the UK and internationally. This negatively impacts wildlife, the natural world and accelerates climate change. Opting for used furniture instead reduces the demand for new wood, helping to protect forests and the ecosystems they support.

 

6. Reduces the Use of Harmful Chemicals

New furniture can “off-gas" volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals from manufacturing processes, adhesives and finishes. Used furniture has typically already released these chemicals, ensuring that buying pre-loved items is a safer, healthier and environmentally-friendly option.
IKEA warehouse

7. Minimises Industrial Pollution

The production of new furniture involves processes that can pollute air, water, and soil. By buying second-hand, you help decrease the demand for new manufacturing, materials and international shipping, therefore reducing industrial pollution and its harmful effects on the environment.

8. Encourages Responsible Consumption

Choosing second-hand furniture fosters a mindset of responsible consumption. It encourages consumers to value durability, quality, and sustainability over the fast, disposable nature of many modern furniture products.


So whether you are looking to buy a unique furniture item, or are looking to ditch something you are sick of the sight of, we offer new and used furniture and whitegoods as well as a free furniture collection service to help you clear some extra space.