Part of Vice President Leni Robredo’s trip to the United States included helping her daughter, Aika, settle into her apartment as she begins her Masters program in Harvard University. She shared how they had picked up unsold items from garbage and recycling areas to be reused.
Her detractors were quick to lambast her, commenting how she’s perpetuating an image of being “Uncle Sam’s garbage collector” or that it was unnecessary to go all the way to the States to help Aika (already 29 years old) and even criticizing the VP for attending a lavish gala in Los Angeles, as it goes against the image of the simple and humble public servant she projects.
But is it really so bad to pick up other people’s “trash”?
Inquirer columnist Oscar Franklin Tan wrote in his opinion piece this week that this practice of taking in preloved items isn’t uncommon, even in Harvard. “Each summer, students moving out leave slightly used belongings. The next wave happily inherits them, particularly students from developing countries. Even a vice president’s daughter.”
Aside from saving yourself a few dollars (or for most of us, pesos), buying second-hand or thrift shopping has several benefits.
You can help the environment
By buying and making use of second-hand items, you’re helping reduce waste and pollution. Great amounts of energy and resources are spent every time more products—especially clothes—are made. Pollution produced through transportation of products is also less when you buy second-hand versus new, as preloved items often don’t travel far to be sold.
The quality’s already been tested
Second-hand items are most likely made with pretty good, strong material to be able to last its first owner’s lifestyle. It’s also likely that you’ll be able to use the product for several more good uses before it breaks, and you’ll also help by sending less items to the landfills.
Thrift store finds are more unique
If you’re one of those people who don’t exactly enjoy coming across someone wearing the exact same shirt or dress, shopping at thrift stores may as well be heaven. Because some of these preloved items have been produced years or at the very least even seasons ago, you’re less likely to find a duplicate. This also goes for non-clothing items—unique pieces, be it a plate, a mug, or even a piece of furniture, can add character or even become the highlight of your room or table setting.