Repairing is caring
Repair broken household items to save money, reduce waste and learn practical skills
Shauna Coates
October 13 2022
Why fixing broken items is better for people, budgets and the planet
Repairing household items instead of replacing them can help reduce waste, save money and lower environmental impact. From electrical appliances to clothing repairs, fixing everyday items is becoming an increasingly popular and sustainable choice.
Repairing is better for the planet
Repairing items helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill. This is especially important for electrical items, which often contain valuable raw materials and minerals that can be lost forever when disposed of incorrectly.
By repairing products instead of replacing them, we can extend their lifespan and prevent unnecessary waste from polluting waterways, harming wildlife or increasing carbon emissions. If more people repaired rather than replaced items, fewer new products would need to be manufactured, helping reduce pressure on natural resources.
Repairing broken items can save money
Repairing an item is often far cheaper than buying a brand-new replacement. In many cases, only a small spare part or a few basic tools are needed to fix common household items.
Manufacturers are increasingly required to make spare parts available to consumers, helping people repair appliances rather than throw them away. Some estimates suggest easier access to spare parts could increase a product’s lifespan by up to 10 years, helping households save money over time.
Repair cafés bring communities together
Repair Cafés are becoming increasingly popular, with thousands operating across the world.
Hosted in community spaces, Repair Cafés provide tools, materials and volunteers who help people repair broken belongings. They also create opportunities for people to share practical knowledge and learn new skills together, whether that involves sewing, woodworking or electrical repairs.
Repair cafés not only help reduce waste but also strengthen community connections and encourage a culture of reuse and repair.
Small repairs can make a big difference
Choosing to repair rather than replace can benefit both people and the environment. Whether it is fixing an appliance, mending clothing or visiting a local Repair Café, repairing everyday items helps reduce waste, save money and support more sustainable lifestyles.
Next time something breaks, consider whether it could be repaired first, you might save both money and resources in the process.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author, Shauna Coates, and do not necessarily reflect the views of recycle-more, Valpak Limited, or any other organisation.