From Donation to Dump: The Environmental Cost of Charity Shop Surplus

Written by Katie Webber

You know that big bag of old clothes you dropped off at the charity shop after having a wardrobe declutter? You probably felt a warm glow of generosity by donating your unwanted bits to a good cause (and it’s probably also a relief to get all that clutter out of sight by conveniently handing it all over to someone else, right?). What if I told you that only between 10% and 30% of second-hand donations are resold in store. What happens to all the rest?

The clothes that charity shops can’t sell are taken away and in the UK, 70% of used clothing is exported to the Global South. Once there, many clothes end up in landfills or incinerated. This has major impacts on health and the environment, including water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, worsening the strain on countries already struggling with waste management infrastructure.

The rise in fast fashion means we’re constantly in a cycle of buying new clothes and getting rid of old ones to make space. The amount of clothing waste is higher than ever and charity shops have become a form of waste disposal to facilitate the growing consumption. What Can We Do With Our Unwanted Clothes Instead?

Selling on second-hand sites like Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, Preloved, Vinted and Depop is an easy way to get a bit of extra cash for your unwanted items. Freebie sites such as Freecycle and Freegle are great for giving away items and decluttering your home whilst still avoiding landfill. If you have clothes that are damaged or broken, instead of getting rid of them or buying a replacement, why not see if there is a Repair Cafe in your area where you can take electrical, mechanical and textile items to be mended by a group of volunteers for free!

This doesn’t mean we should boycott charity shops; they do some amazing work and support good causes. Instead, we should be more mindful that we’re donating good condition, good quality items that have a chance of reselling. Charities will be able to make a bigger impact with fewer, better-quality items that can support their work.

The Bottom Line- Small Changes Add Up

Fashion’s environmental impact is undeniable, but as consumers, we have the power to make a real difference. By asking questions about where our clothes come from and where they end up, we can start making more conscious choices that support sustainability, rather than contributing to waste.

Remember, the journey doesn’t end when you drop off a donation bag. Next time you’re spring cleaning or buying that new jacket, pause and think: What’s the real cost of this purchase?

You will find lots of other ideas for loving your clothes and reducing your impact on the planet here.

You can read about How fast fashion is fuelling the fashion waste crisis in Africa Greenpeace.

You will find lots of other ideas for loving your clothes and reducing your impact on the planet here.

Why not give Vinted a try.

Image thanks to © Kevin McElvaney / Greenpeace