Other:
- The Little Free Library movement lets you share with passer's by by simply placing a waterproof place for books to pass around.
- Picking up furniture being given away on the street
- We love Nextdoor.com for our neighborhood and also use the "Free" section on Craigslist a lot - it's amazing what kind of stuff people want, from bubble wrap to old paint and more :)
- When I buy things at the store I try to buy those with containers that can be used and re-purposed in my home. I have also gotten some containers like old crates and painted on them to be sold in my craft business.
- Giving hand-me down clothes to friends & neighbors children. trading excess produce from our garden craft supply swap
- Share backyard garden bounty with friends, neighbors, and people in need (depending on how much excess I have).
- Swapping with friends and relatives clothes, childrens toys and everything you can think of
Second Hand Stores
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| Thrift stores offer a pleasant shopping experience |
I remember a time when people looked down on thrift stores. For many, it was a symbol of poverty. The stores seemed to share that belief, as well, because they accepted any donations, even broken items, and didn't make shopping a pleasant experience. The general belief seemed to be that something, even a torn or broken item, should be gratefully taken by those who couldn't afford better.
These days, things have changed. Thrift stores are picky about what they accept, saying no to unusable items. Products are neatly, and often attractively, arranged so that the shopping experience is a nice one.
Second hand stores, today, are a mixture of boutique, consignment shop, and garage sale. They are fun!
Attitudes have changed, as well. I'm sure that there are still folks who wouldn't step foot in a Goodwill, but most see it as a practical way to reuse items and avoid the need to manufacture new things. And yes, it's also a way to make our money go further.
Other Ways to Share Resources
The survey showed that we use a lot of ways to share resources. We blog and use social media, we offer things on Freecycle, and we both lend to and borrow from friends.
Many people mentioned using the library. In preparation for several posts this month, I learned that libraries offer more than just books. In some communities, libraries loan art, tools, and even seeds.
I learned about a new way to share, Nextdoor.com, which I'll be looking into as a way to, perhaps, start a seed swap.
It was no surprise to find out that many readers generously share garden vegetables with friends and family.
Conclusion
Sharing resources is good on so many levels. It helps avoid the over-consumption of natural resources. It builds community and encourages compassion. It's a way to reduce waste, avoid toxins, and protect the earth.
Who could ask for more?