
Almost 200,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and more than 50 million litres of water have been saved by consumers buying second hand in Ireland
During 2021, 167.84 tonnes of CO2 emissions and 59,906,398 litres of water have been saved simply by consumers opting to buy second hand items, according to the Thrifty.ie 2021 impact report showing shopping habits of consumers.
Thriftify CEO and climate activist Rónán Ó’Dálaigh says; “ 2021 was the year that people began to sit up and take notice about climate change and their shopping habits.” he also added; We are hoping to keep growing in 2022 and encouraging people to opt for second hand when they can.”
Thrifty is an online shop with a model similar to ASOS or Amazon that sells second-hand charity shop goods exclusively. 98% of Ireland’s charities are present and selling on the site with new items added daily. The packaging used for deliveries is biodegradable. On their website, Thriftify states that they are “creating a movement of positive purchasing by connecting charity shops with consumers who care.”
Out of all the clothing donated in 2021, the “dresses” category accounted for the most popular items on the site with. 5705 in total sold; followed by the “Jumpers and Cardigans” section. A total of 23,026 orders from shoppers have been processed by the company, the most expensive item sold on the site being €414.37, which was a vintage Gucci dress.
Users can also choose to donate to their chosen charity at the checkout. In 2021, Thrifty users donated €5803.69 whilst checking out of the site that will go straight to their chosen charity in its entirety.
The company launched their winter sale January 14th, with discounts from a multitude of charity shops.