When it comes to sustainability, reusing will almost always have a smaller carbon footprint than buying new (even if what you’re buying is made of sustainable materials!).
Let’s let this sink in for a minute…
That means that if we prioritize maintaining our planet, buying old is almost always better than buying new.
Is there an exception?
This may not be true for items that are produced using sustainable or eco-friendly manufacturing methods, such as using renewable energy sources, recycled materials, or non-toxic chemicals. In such cases, new objects with a sustainable manufacturing process may have a lower carbon footprint and other environmental impacts compared to old items – but only if obtaining, using, and disposing of those old items involve leeching unwanted chemicals into the earth or air.
It’s important to consider the entire life cycle of the products you’re comparing, including production, transportation, use, and disposal, to fully understand the environmental impacts.
Why is buying “old” more sustainable, in general?
Often, the biggest part of an item’s carbon footprint is in the manufacturing process.
The immense amount of energy required for manufacturing often comes from non-renewable sources that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
And, manufacturing drives up the demand for new resources such as raw materials, water, and energy, many of which are non-renewable and finite.
Even if using “sustainable” materials like bamboo and rattan, or recycled materials like recycled glass and rubber, manufacturing still uses more resources than simply using something that has already been made.
Plus, by giving something a second life, or an extended life, you are delaying it going to the landfill.
So let’s give a little extra love to old things…
What are some of the best reasons to love “old”?
- Aesthetic appeal: Antique, reused, old, and salvaged items often have unique characteristics, such as patina, wear, and history, that add a unique visual appeal.
- History and nostalgia: Old items often have stories and a sense of history attached to them, which create a connection to the past.
- Cost-effectiveness: Antique, reused, old, and salvaged items are often less expensive than new items, making vintage and secondhand items a cost-effective option.
- Creativity and uniqueness: Reusing and repurposing old items often requires creativity and problem-solving skills, a fun and rewarding hobby than can lead to a one-of-a-kind item.
- Community: Treasure-hunting and choosing these items can be a way to connect with others who share similar interests. Plus, you can support local businesses that specialize in vintage and second-hand items.
Second-hand shops
I, personally, have two shops fairly local to me that sell vintage and salvaged home furniture: The Red Rooster in Redlands, California, and Salvaged Treasures in Riverside. I am a regular at both shops, know the owners, and enjoy chatting with them whenever I visit.
One of the things I love about the furniture at Red Rooster is the beauty of the old wood – in the knots, grains, and even the imperfections. Each piece has character, charm, and history that you just can’t find in newly manufactured furniture.
Salvaged Treasures is a different kind of shop, but equally lovely. They specialize in up-cycling and repurposing items, so everything in the store has been given a new life. Browsing the shelves is an experience in and of itself; I love seeing how creative people can be with old items. The very desk I am sitting at now is from Salvaged Treasures; an old circular “game table” once used for playing card games, repainted by the shop owner in a weathered, pale sage color. Its two miniature drawers, once used for holding cards and score pads, now hold my pens and small writing materials. It says “Character! Charm! History!”
Start your search …
Search for your local salvaged treasures shops, antique shops, thrift shops… Estate sales and yard sales can also hold a plethora of treasures waiting to be given a second life.
By choosing to shop “old,” you not only get to discover unique and amazing finds, but you’re also doing your part in helping to take care of our beautiful planet.
