Reuse Shops at Welsh Recycling Centres

Case studies of Welsh reuse shops at household recycling centres in five council areas and lessons for effective reuse shops.

WRAP Cymru was asked to prepare a report highlighting good practices for reuse in Welsh local authorities – particularly at Household Recycling Centres (HRCs). Lessons for effective reuse have been compiled using the evidence from the case studies of five local authorities interviewed.

One of the key things apparent from the case studies is the wide range of potential benefits that can come from a reuse shop at a recycling centre:

• Greater environmental understanding, reducing waste and therefore carbon impact.
• Instil behaviour change in residents, moving away from disposal to reuse and retain the value of items in their community.
• Excellent value items at a reduced price for customers, particularly relevant in the current cost of living crisis.
• Significant social value and impact by engaging with the local community.
• Community benefits from staff and volunteers being upskilled.
• Reversing the loss of a ’make do and mend’ culture.
• Great for volunteer experience, being part of a team.
• Supports active circular economy community.
• Community given additional facilities to use/engage with.

However, the challenge of establishing and maintaining a reuse shop should not be underestimated. Reuse shops are very much collaborative activities, and their success depends on a wide range of stakeholders.