We can limit the impact of disposing of waste by ensuring we only throw away items once they are truly passed their usable life .
This includes repairing items which are broken or worn, or converting items for a different.
Upcycling
Upcycling is the process taking an unused item, and refurbishing and refashioning it so that it once again becomes usable; either for its original purpose or for something completely different.
Often, upcycled items may be seen to be better than the original, whether they become more practical, beautiful or even valuable.
There are many website which provide ideas and inspiration for upcycling, including Upcycle That, Good Housekeeping, and House Beautiful – alongside many others.
Repair Café
Repair cafés are a communal venture where people come together to repair items. Tools and materials are provided, with volunteer experts on hand to help assist individuals to repair any broken items they may have.
A number of Repair Cafés operate within Wokingham – Woodley Repair Café operates from Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road, on the first Sunday of each month.
Library of Things (LOT)
The Library of Things is an initiative which encourages local communities to rent, borrow and share items from each other. Items can range from sewing machines, to power tools, to carpet cleaners, to air fryers.
Whilst not currently available in the area, interested individuals can register interest on the website, which will initiate a campaign to setup a LOT. When 500 people have registered, a member of the LOT team will engage with the group to explore setup options.
The website also tracks the benefit to the environmental of borrowing and mending.
