Photo by Julen Garces 

When we talk about sustainability, the terms reuse and recycling often come up, sometimes interchangeably. Yet, these practices are fundamentally different, each with its own set of benefits and challenges. 

Reuse involves using an item again for its original purpose or repurposing it without significant processing - like using a glass jar as a container for bulk foods.
Recycling, on the other hand, entails breaking down materials to create new products, often through an energy-intensive industrial process - like melting down plastic bottles to make new plastic items.

Environmental differences

From an environmental perspective, the impact of reuse versus recycling is quite different. 

Reuse reduces the need for new raw materials, minimizes waste, and consumes significantly less energy. In contrast, recycling, while still beneficial, involves processes that consume energy and can produce waste and pollutants. For example, recycling aluminum requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce new aluminum, yet it still involves significant industrial processing.

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation emphasizes the substantial benefits of reuse within the framework of a circular economy. They highlight that reuse, along with other circular strategies, can significantly reduce environmental impacts by keeping products and materials in use and designing out waste and pollution.

For instance, the foundation explains that shifting to a circular economy could halve carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 across various sectors like mobility, food systems, and the built environment. This illustrates the profound impact that reuse and other circular practices can have on reducing environmental footprints.

Cost advantage

Reuse often saves money for consumers and businesses alike. 

Photo by Karolina Kaboompics 

Consumers save money by reusing products instead of buying new ones. Reusing containers, furniture, and clothing directly cuts down on household expenses and can avoid or reduce disposal costs.

Businesses that implement reuse strategies, such as remanufacturing or refurbishing products, quite often spend less on raw materials and energy. Remanufacturing a product typically costs 40-65% less than making a new one from scratch​ (US EPA)​. By designing products for reuse, companies can extend the lifespan of their products, reducing the need for frequent replacements and lowering the overall cost of goods sold​.

Businesses that adopt reuse practices can also enhance their brand image and build customer loyalty, which translates to increased sales and customer retention. Companies like Patagonia and IKEA have implemented reuse and repair programs that save money and also attract environmentally conscious customers​.

Social impact

Reuse encourages community engagement and education. In Minnesota, opportunities to foster community spirit while promoting the benefits of reuse are growing. 

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Here at Reuse Minnesota, we’re thankful for funding from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's Environmental Assistance Grant Program which allows us to host Mend-it Clinics throughout the year.

County-sponsored Fix-It Clinics invite residents to bring broken household items, like small appliances, clothing, electronics, and more, to be repaired for free by volunteers. These events not only extend the life of the items but also help build community connections as people come together to share skills and knowledge.

Likewise, Loose Parts Laboratory is a materials center for community members to utilize salvaged “found objects” from everyday life in classrooms, workshops, art spaces, and community events, providing the essential ingredients for enriching childhood learning, creative expression, and development. 

These initiatives prove that reuse is not just about environmental benefits. By participating in these events, people are contributing to a more sustainable and connected community.

Supporting local economies

ArtStart’s core program, ArtScraps, is a creative reuse store of donated, recycled materials, a destination for people to obtain supplies and inspiration for art projects with low environmental impact. Over 50,000 pounds of scrap material and discards are reused.

Austin Creative Reuse (ACR) has created numerous jobs and supports local artisans by providing affordable, gently used creative materials and a marketplace for these items. ACR began as a 100% volunteer-run organization and has grown significantly, now operating an 11,000-square-foot facility in the Windsor Park neighborhood. This growth has included the creation of paid staff positions to support their expanding operations​.

Promoting a local culture of reuse fosters long-term sustainability and conscious consumption. By embracing reuse, we’re paving the way for a more sustainable and conscientious society. And that simply benefits everyone.

Photo by Matheus Bertelli

Understanding the differences between reuse and recycling reveals that while both are important for sustainability, reuse often offers greater benefits. It can be more resource-efficient, cost-effective, and supportive of local economies, building a culture of sustainability. 

By embracing reuse, we can make a significant impact on our environment and communities. Let’s take this opportunity to integrate more reuse practices into our daily lives and support local reuse initiatives. Together, we’re building a more sustainable future.

Written by Cynthia Berg | Cynthia is a versatile UX & content design expert who creates captivating online spaces & content for purpose-driven organizations. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Instagram or on her website.