Marks and Spencer (M&S) brought us the concept of Shwopping in April – via adverts featuring Joanna Lumley. The concept has seen boxes (Shwop Drops) placed in all of their shops and in Oxfam shops too – where customers can place their unwanted clothes (from any brand). These items are then either reused or recycled. M&S have reported that in the first six months of the scheme more than two million items have been shwopped – diverting 865 tonnes of textiles from disposal and raising over £1.5m for Oxfam. In fact M&S have now put on sale a cost made from wool donated through the shwop scheme. This too isn’t a new thing either - years ago people used the wool from outgrown jumpers or woollen items with holes in and knitted new items with the yarn. So not only are M&S recycling and reusing clothing they are recycling old ideas too – and why shouldn’t they? The modern twist is working for them and helping the environment too. ...
The meanderings and wafflings of my mind. @luluslr @luluslrblogs