Global Recycling Day blog by Ryan Perkins

The 18th March marks Global Recycling Day – an annual day to help recognise, and celebrate, the importance recycling plays in securing the future of our planet.

I don’t think the environmental benefits of charity retail are a surprise to anyone anymore but the numbers are still shocking. At least £31 million each year is saved by charity shops for councils in waste disposal charges by diverting 339,000 tonnes of textiles away from landfill or incineration. This reduction in landfill not only saves money but it also makes a positive difference to the UK’s carbon footprint. 

The charity retail sector is not only built on sustainable principles but it provides clothing to people at a price they can afford. We offer people the opportunity to live more sustainably with the clothes, shoes, books and furniture that we sell and the message of re-use and recycle is at the core or what we do. 

Did you know charity shops re-use or recycle more than 90% of all items donated? If our shops cannot re-use or sell an item, they will seek to recycle it via a textile recycler.

Here are our top 3 tips for maximising your recycling and how our shops can help you:

• Re-use – we have charity shops all over Greater Manchester where you can find some fantastic second hand bargains from clothes to books, to toys and games, and we even have a wedding dress shop located in Stockport where you can find your dream dress.

• Repair or up-cycle – we have specialist furniture shops where you can find a treasure trove of items, including second hand beds, chairs, tables, lamps, sofas and sideboards which could make great projects to up-cycle. Plus, if you no longer need an item of furniture then donate it to our charity shops and book a free collection.

• Reduce – one way you can reduce your plastic waste is by using our plastic-free ECOLEAF refills for a range of household products at our Heald Green charity shop. Simply bring your containers, fill them up with your chosen products and pay at the till.

By shopping with St Ann’s, you’re not only helping the planet and bagging a bargain, but your purchase helps fund the care and support we offer our patients and their families.