A report from the Reuse Network released yesterday (20 February 2025) called on the government to “recognise and support” the impact of UK reuse charities in achieving the country’s circular economy goals.
The charity argued that without policy reform and investment, the sector will struggle to continue delivering its “crucial environmental and social benefits”.
Last year, the Reuse Network reported that its members facilitated the reuse of over two million items that would have otherwise been discarded.
However, the charity now warned that the number of items reused has dropped by 1.5 million in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic as continued economic pressures have resulted in a decline in donations to reuse charities across the UK.
Additionally, the network added that inadequate support for reuse charities has forced some to shut their doors or scale back operations, leaving communities without viable options to purchase second-hand items or donate unwanted goods.
Craig Anderson, CEO of Reuse Network said: “For decades, reuse charities have stepped in where policy has fallen short, ensuring that essential household goods remain accessible to those who need them most.
“Yet, despite our environmental, social, and economic contributions, the value of the reuse sector has never been fully recognised or supported. The government must act now to remove restrictive policies and champion reuse in order to unlock its full potential in driving the circular economy forward. The time for recognition and action is long overdue.”
In December 2024, the government announced the creation of a Circular Economy Taskforce to develop a Circular Economy Strategy for England.
The new report included a “Reuse Roadmap” which sets out five points which the Reuse Network is asking the taskforce to consider in the development of the strategy:
- Breaking the link between waste and reuse by managing resource.
- Removing regulatory burdens hampering reuse.
- Upgrading to new recruits to manage large item waste.
- Supporting the existing reuse sector.
- Recognising and valuing the social benefits and public savings created through reuse.
The roadmap has the backing of the members of the Reuse Network, including charity ILM Highland. Its CEO Martin Macleod commented: “The reuse sector plays a vital role in supporting low-income households while reducing waste and carbon emissions. Without stronger government support, many charities will be unable to continue their work, resulting in greater environmental harm and fewer affordable options for those in need.”
Interim waste manager at Cumberland council and chair of trustees for the Reuse Network, Graham Harrison, added: “Throughout my career in waste management and local government, I’ve witnessed how policy and industry have prioritised recycling while failing to fully recognise the value of reuse.
“As a trustee at Reuse Network, it has been refreshing to see how products at the end of their life are seen as a resource, rather than waste. However, robust support and recognition of reuse charities is needed to ensure they can continue this important work. The government must rebalance its approach, investing in prevention and reuse first.”
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