WE CAN FIX IT!

Top 5 reasons to repair instead of replacing

1. Save money

Repairing rejects the idea that new is always better. By prolonging the lives of belongings you love, you’re reducing the need to buy new and saving yourself that extra cash. Even employing the professionals is (most of the time) cheaper than replacing an item.

2. Reduce your emissions

Repairing both reduces demand for virgin materials and energy resources and is direct action against unsustainable fast consumerism – a big win for the planet. In fact, waste organisation WRAP claims that by extending the life of your clothes by just nine months, your carbon, water and waste footprints fall by 20-30% each.

3. Form a better connection

Loved items last. And those with a backstory are particularly special. Giving an item new life strengthens your sense of connection and ownership to your belongings. The BBC’s popular programme The Repair Shop demonstrates the emotions and sentiment we assign to objects and heirlooms and how repairing brings that history to life again.

4. Up-skill or support a repair professional

From sewing on a button to the Japanese art of fixing broken pottery, there’s unlimited learning opportunities waiting to be discovered. And when you do, you’ll feel empowered by the achievement. Don’t forget to support the professionals too – from cobblers to jewellers, seamstresses to electronic technicians.

5. Discover mindfulness

Mending is a slow and soothing activity. The problem-solving aspect requires creativity and focus and there’s a great sense of achievement once complete. The process of working with your hands away from screens can help relax and bring you into the present moment, a key way to foster mindfulness.