Tempted by a spring clean this month? Take part in the “Make Space, Not Waste” campaign and donate your unwanted items of furniture to your local reuse organisation.
Essex County Council, in partnership with Rochford District Council and four local councils in Essex, is launching a two-month campaign to inspire and encourage residents to pass on their unwanted furniture instead of disposing of it.
As part of the "Make Space, Not Waste" campaign, a comprehensive directory has been added to the Love Essex website. The directory makes it quick and easy for residents to find local reuse organisations and charity shops accepting donations of large items. Many organisations also offer free collections, saving residents both time and money.
Donated items will be given a new lease of life and benefit those in need, or help charities raise money to fund the essential services they deliver.
The campaign also shares helpful tips to maximise the chance of items being reused, such as keeping the fire label on upholstered furniture.
Councillor Peter Schwier, Chair of the Essex Waste Partnership and Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction and Recycling at Essex County Council, said: "We believe that by making it easier for residents to find information about where to donate their unwanted furniture, we can significantly reduce the amount of items being thrown away and support our local communities. Our new directory is a valuable resource for anyone looking to make a positive impact by donating their items to those who can use them. This initiative aligns with the principles outlined in the Waste Strategy for Essex 2024-2054. Waste reduction and reuse are key areas of focus to help us reach the county’s ambitious target to halve the amount of general rubbish produced by residents by 2042.”
Councillor Chris Stanley, Rochford District Council’s Chair for Environment and Climate Change Committee, said: "The 'Make Space, Not Waste' campaign provides a fantastic opportunity for residents to make a meaningful contribution to our environment and community. By donating unwanted furniture to local reuse organisations, such as the Hopework Reuse Centre in Rayleigh, we can reduce waste, support charities, and give items a new lease of life. I encourage everyone to visit the Love Essex website to explore this valuable resource and take part in this important initiative to benefit both people and the planet."
Residents can visit www.loveessex.org/donate to find out more about the different options to donate items and to access the directory.