Thrifting for All: India Recycles Makes a Real Difference

Thrifting is trendy. You see it everywhere online. But is it helping everyone? Renu Pokharna, from Ahmedabad, saw a problem. She noticed that thrifting became a fashion statement for the rich. It forgot its true purpose: helping those in need and reducing waste.

Renu started India Recycles. She wanted to bring affordable thrifting to the urban poor. She saw that many people in India avoid second-hand items. They think they are dirty. Renu wanted to change this. She wanted to show that sustainable living is for everyone.

She began by organizing swap events. But these left behind unwanted items. Then, during the COVID lockdown, she saw the struggles of the informal sector. She decided to act. She launched India Recycles. This organization holds slum sales. They sell pre-loved goods at very low prices. This helps people buy things they need.

India Recycles collects donations from all over. They work with colleges and cafes. They receive clothes, toys, and household items. They even got a donated car! Volunteers sort the items. They clean and fix them. They also upcycle some items. They make new things from old clothes. This reduces waste and creates useful products.

They organize garage sales in many locations. They want to make ethical consumption accessible to everyone. They know that poor people have trouble buying basic things. They don't have easy access to shops or online stores. India Recycles bridges this gap.

This is social impact thrifting. It's not just about fashion. It's about helping people. It's about reducing waste. It's about making a difference. Renu and her team are changing lives. They are making thrifting meaningful again. They are showing that everyone deserves access to affordable goods. They are promoting a truly circular economy. They are making a real change.