An annual campaign that encourages people to avoid buying new clothes
Second Hand September is an annual campaign that encourages people to avoid buying new clothes for the entire month of September.
It aims to raise awareness about the environmental impact of fast fashion and promote more sustainable ways of consuming fashion. By participating, individuals can reduce waste, support second-hand markets, and contribute to the global effort to slow down the harmful effects of overproduction and overconsumption in the fashion industry.
Did you know, each year, up to 40% of all clothing manufactured globally is never sold? In a world of overproduction and overconsumption, Second Hand September is all about challenging yourself to create more sustainable shopping habits for a fairer future – without compromising on style. Source: Oxfam 2nd hand sept
The production of clothes uses so much of our planet’s precious resources, when millions of people around the world don’t have access to the basics like clean water.
Every time you choose second hand – whether that’s buying a vintage tee or donating what you don’t wear any more – you’re making a statement. You’re dressing for the world you want. Fashion is one of the most polluting industries on the planet.
As well as using so much of the planet’s clean water to produce, there’s mass pollution from the production and transportation of clothes. And a throwaway culture where mountains of clothes end up in landfill every year.
It’s all contributing to the climate crisis. Whilst people living in communities that are the least responsible for it are being pushed further into poverty. That’s why choosing second hand matters more than ever.
By recirculating clothes – buying, wearing and donating second hand – you’re giving fashion a longer life and cutting down the demand for new. And this can help to reduce the damage to our planet.
Where can I get recycled clothes? Online marketplaces like Vinted, eBay and Facebook are an easy way to start. Your local charity shops keep a great selection of preloved outfits and are a great way to find some quality clothes at a fraction of the retail price. Even easier, swap with your friends and relatives!
