Op shops embrace sustainability

OP SHOPS across the region are working towards a cheap and sustainable way to cut down on waste this year.

The Northern Rivers Community Gallery hosted a community clothes swap and creative mending workshop at Ballina last month.

It said the average Australian buys 56 new items of clothing each year, with 6000 kg of clothing being sent to landfill every 10 minutes.

In the Ballina Shire alone, textiles make up eight per cent of the average kerbside landfill bin.

According to opshop.org, there are more than 50 registered op shops across the Northern Rivers, not including several independent and outdoor pop-up operations.

TAFE NSW fashion teacher, Deborah Hatley said with increased awareness around sustainability, many people are embracing op shopping as a stylish and eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion.

Fast fashion, while cheap, will often see garments and materials quickly discarded and sent to waste.

Ms Hatley compiled a list of fashion trends and what to look for when visiting an op shop.

“Op shopping offers a tangible solution to the challenges of disposable fashion,” she said.

“Gen Z and millennials are looking to save money while prioritising the environment.

“Denim is never out of fashion, and the op shops provide a wealth of material. Look for old jeans to cut up and repurpose into tops, skirts, or dresses.”

The post-Christmas season is one of the busiest times of year for op shops who receive a large amount of donated goods through the school holidays.

The community is reminded to not drop off excess garbage or damaged goods.

It is recommended that people donate items during opening hours and in donation bins that are not overflowing.