The Green Connect Op Shop, like all op shops, has a purpose to give used goods a new life. When clothes, crockery, books, toys, and more are donated, our team of incredible staff and volunteers pick out good quality items for us to sell at affordable prices so that everyone benefits. As a non-profit, all proceeds are invested back into Green Connect business arms, which create jobs for young people and former refugees in industries that help the planet and community.
But when it comes to donated items that cannot be sold, our op shop operates differently than most. Items that are broken, clothes that are too dirty, or books with torn pages are most easily disposed in the landfill. But reducing waste is one of our core goals at Green Connect, so we actively look for ways to recycle and repurpose as much waste as possible.
We currently have 35 different recycling/waste streams that help us to divert unsellable donations from landfill. B-grade clothes, broken toys, unsellable bags and belts get passed along to a textile recycler. Chipped crockery and glassware are sent to another business that gives them a final chance at life. Book pages are separated from their covers to be recycled. In May 2024, we received over 4000kg of donations, and via sales and waste streams, over 90% were saved from landfill.
The process takes more time and attention, but in the pursuit of making retail shops that are good for people and the planet, we think it’s worth it!
You can support Green Connect and our op shops by donating good quality used goods, shopping at our Unanderra or UOW locations, or volunteering! Find out more at https://green-connect.com.au/op-shop/.
Steph Thackray,
Op Shop Coordinator