How to get rid of your waste sustainably
Maire Kondo’s latest Netflix series, Tidying Up, is taking Australia by storm and paired with the start of the year we’re with you and ready to declutter and start the year fresh. But one major thing we think is missing from Kondo’s hit show is how to dispose of your pre-loved items sustainably. So before you put it all on the kerb or worse in the bin, read on.
Clothing
One of the five core pillars of the KonMari method and arguably the easiest place to start. There are numerous charities that accept clothing donations (click here to find your local) or if your pieces are expensive you could sell your unwanted clothing and donate a % to your favourite charity using Charitizer.
For worn and un-saleable clothing look to companies like H&M who have a garment collection program for textiles which they recycle for industrial rags and other textile by-products. Most animal shelters and vets will open their arms to old towels and bedding.
Books
It’s time to part with that book that you will never ever read again but remember what they say one man’s trash is another’s treasure. Donate your old books to thrift shops, schools or your local library.
If you are having trouble letting go of “stuff” read our guide from Marie Kondo here.
Paper
For those non-confidential items, it is straight to the recycling bin for excess paper and for those top-secret documents? Look for a service like Shred-X who will shred and dispose of your files for a small fee.
E-Waste
When it comes to e-waste it is difficult to know where to even start! Organisations like Mobile Muster will dispose of your old mobile phone for free. Old computers can be collected by organisations like TechCollect and batteries should be disposed of at your local Aldi, Battery World or Office Works.
Komono – Misc items
For all of those leftover odd bits and bobs why not partner with a couple of your neighbours and throw a garage sale or offer to take one big load to your local charity store.
Once you have decluttered Kondo recommends giving every item in your house a place so you know exactly where it goes every time, here is how she recommends folding all of your clothes.
