Tasmanians have saved an estimated $147 million through buying and selling second hand goods in the 2023-24 financial year alone, a new study has found.
In a Tasmanian first the Tasmanian Reuse Impact Study was undertaken by not-for-profit organisation, Charitable Reuse Australia in partnership with the Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board.
The study captured environmental, economic and social impacts of charitable and commercial reuse organisations in Tasmania.
Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board Chair Pam Allan said the study results would support further initiatives of reuse and repair as key drivers of the circular economy.
“The study has provided a great insight into the reuse sector in Tasmania,” she said.
“A key finding of the study, was that the volume of reuse in the State was estimated to be 13.9 million items throughout the 2023-24 financial year. That’s 24 items or 19.3 kilograms per Tasmanian!
“Most of those items, approximately 90 per cent, were reused within the state with the rest exported and reused.
“It has also had a significant impact on employment, with the sector generating paid employment for people totalling approximately 414 full time jobs.
“The study also found that the sector supported cost of living relief, saving Tasmanians an estimated $147 million through selling and providing second hand goods compared to buying items new which is pleasing to hear.
“These study results will help guide future Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board initiatives, helping to lead Tasmania to be a place where nothing is wasted.”
Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board Chair Pam Allan at the launch of the Tasmanian Reuse Impact Study.
Charitable Reuse Australia CEO Omer Soker said Tasmanians have a wonderful culture of reuse and caring for our environment and society.
“Whenever Australians donate a quality item or buy something pre-loved from a charity shop, they make a massive impact socially and environmentally. Additionally, they find something unique to cherish,” he said.
Other key findings from the study estimate reuse organisations have:
- Rehomed 13.9 million second-hand items.
- Reinvested $8.3 million raised into social and community programs.
- Diverted an estimated 11,000 tonnes of products from landfill to reuse.
For more information and to read the report, visit the Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board website.