Benefits of Thrifting: Thrifting for the Ocean

Want to help the ocean while shopping for a new wardrobe? Thrift shopping makes this possible by reusing clothing. When we buy new clothing, the manufacturing process behind it isn't beneficial for our carbon footprints. As we all become aware of our carbon footprints, thrifting is one way to lower them. When it's time to get rid of your own clothes, be sure to drop them off at the local thrift store so they can be reused.

Here at MSI, we focus on the ocean, and thrifting has an impact on that as well. The fibers used to make our clothing are typically non-biodegradable, which can result in ocean pollution. According to Goodwill, the "volume of textile trash increased by 40% between 1999 and 2009," and has increased since. There is no easy solution to this problem since we cannot simply stop buying clothing. If we thrift some of our clothes, we can reduce the trash pollution that goes into the ocean since less clothing will be created. Thrift store items usually last longer since they have tolerated the wear and tear of a previous owner. This means you won't have to buy new for a while.

Thrifting is also a lot of fun! Going thrifting has become a popular way to shop, partially because of the unique clothing. Currently, it seems that everyone wears the same styles. Thrift shops have more variety because no piece is the same; therefore, it is unlikely you will see someone wearing the same thing as you.

Additionally, thrifting proves inexpensive, and the thrill of finding deals keeps people coming back. Thrifting is the perfect way to experiment or take a fashion risk without having to fully commit to it financially. Finding a pair of jean shorts that fit just right for $3 will leave you wanting more. Some of the prices for quality brands are unreal. Yet you won't always be so lucky since, in reality, thrifting requires searching for hidden gems. There will be times when you find a hideously bedazzled sweater with a picture of a shark on the back. However, those are the times when you just have to try it on for the laughs.

What's the funniest thing you've found while thrifting?

Resources:

“Thrifting: Helping Yourself to Help the Environment.” Goodwill of Southern New England, 12 June 2019, https://www.goodwillsne.org/thrifting-helping-yourself-to-help-the-environment/.

“Why Thrifting Is Good for the Planet, Not Just Your Wallet.” Student Environmental Resource Center, 18 Nov. 2013, https://serc.berkeley.edu/why-thrifting-is-good-for-the-planet-not-just-your-wallet/.

Resnick, Brian. “More than Ever, Our Clothes Are Made of Plastic. Just Washing Them Can Pollute the Oceans.” Vox, Vox, 11 Jan. 2019, https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2018/9/19/17800654/clothes-plastic-pollution-polyester-washing-machine.