we all reuse

Local authorities across London are now adopting reuse as a larger part of their waste strategies.

Give and take days are spreading across the London boroughs - organized and staffed by the LA themselves, these events not only facilitate reuse but also measure it.

Each item or bundle brought to the venue is classified and weighed before being put out for the taking. These figures are passed on to Defra to be added to the regional and national totals.

Many events have times during which wanted items can only be reserved, after this items can be taken right away. All electrical goods are tested on the spot, and can only be taken if passed and tagged.

We recently attended a swap in Camden, and as well as acquiring some lovely things including a working sewing machine, spoke to the staff there.

Waste officer Claire Howard said "These events are a great way for us to encourage reuse, and each event saves on average 3 tons from landfill. We wish we could do them more often, but they are costly to stage. The cost per ton would be quite high if you counted just what is swapped on the day but we know that the give and take inspires others to set up their own events too."

Camden will be running 2-3 days a year. With each borough across London doing roughly the same, there's a chance there's a swap every month.

A simple search for 'give and take days' online will bring you each borough's listing, and a great guide from WEN.