Climate Column: Second Hand September
Oxfam’s Second Hand September campaign is a powerful initiative encouraging people to rethink their shopping habits by pledging to buy only second-hand clothes for the entire month of September.
Launched in 2019, the campaign draws attention to the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion and promoted sustainable alternatives.
Second Hand September is not just about thrift shopping it’s a movement that links consumer behaviour with climate action.
The fashion industry is one of the most polluting sectors globally. It accounts for around 10% of global carbon emissions and nearly 20% of wastewater production. From the energy-intensive processes of textile manufacturing to the vast quantities of water used in dyeing fabrics, the environmental footprint of clothing is staggering.
Fast fashion makes this even worse by encouraging overproduction and overconsumption and with only 1% of textiles being recycled, this leads to mountains of textile waste and a throwaway culture that strains natural resources. Oxfam’s campaign seeks to disrupt this cycle by promoting reuse and giving garments a second life.
By choosing second-hand clothing, fewer clothes have to be made which lowers greenhouse gas emissions and conserves water and energy. It’s a simple yet impactful way to reduce one’s carbon footprint.
Oxfam estimates that buying one kilogram of second-hand clothing instead of new saves 6 kilograms of CO₂ emissions. Multiply that by all of people participating in Second Hand September, and the total impact could be huge!
September marks the start of the autumn fashion season, when shops launch their new season and shoppers are tempted to refresh their wardrobes. So it’s the perfect time to reflect, and opt out of this cycle!
‘Circular fashion’ is coming more and more popular, with people are embracing vintage and pre-loved clothing not just for ethical reasons but for style and individuality. Social media influencers and celebrities have joined the campaign, showcasing second-hand outfits and helping to normalise sustainable fashion choices.
So if you’re looking to get involved in Second Hand September- get down to your local charity shop and have a browse of the shelves and rails. You’ll not only be helping the planet, you can find some real bargains.
This could also be the perfect time to have a clean-out and donate some of your pre-loved clothes so they can go on to be loved by somebody new.
In a world grappling with climate emergencies, campaigns like Second Hand September offer a simple way for us all to make a difference with our individual actions.
It’s not about perfection it’s about progress. By choosing second-hand, we reduce waste, lower emissions, and support a more equitable world. This campaign reminds us that every purchase is a vote for the kind of future we want to create.
Posted on Tuesday 26th August 2025