Reuse in Devon

Why should I reuse?

A new item is not always necessary!

Many things we buy and then throw in the bin could either be used for another purpose or be reused by someone else.

Before you throw away any unwanted items, consider their condition. In many circumstances, items you no longer have a use for could be used for another purpose, or be used by someone else.

Reusing items, such as old furniture and electrical equipment, prevents the need to buy new products, reducing the consumption of virgin resources. Reusing also helps to prevent these items ending up in a landfill site.

Satellite image showing deforestation in Matto Grosso, Brasil

Reuse also helps to support charity shops and reuse projects, by providing valuable items to them for resale.

Reuse is important as the world’s resources are not infinite. We are using resources at a faster rate than ever before. Many of the resources we rely on are becoming increasingly expensive and worldwide competition for these is stronger now than ever.

Vast amounts of rainforest are lost each year, due to farmers and loggers clearing for grazing. The valuable timber is then used to make some of the furniture we buy. Reuse reduces the demand for this timber.

A north sea oil rig

As the global population grows and develops, there is an ever growing demand for the world’s natural resources. By reusing, we are decreasing our dependence on virgin and foreign resources.