During Reuse Month communities and individuals around Ireland will come together to learn how one person’s unwanted item could be another person’s treasure. In October there are nationwide initiatives that will highlight how to reuse everyday items and materials that would otherwise go to waste. It aims to inspire and empower individuals to see the value in items they might usually choose to discard. Throughout the month there will be free workshops on an array of subjects such as teaching people how to remake their favourite piece of clothing, how to transform an old piece of furniture and even how to make a lamp from an empty glass bottle. Ireland’s local authorities are also showing their support for Reuse Month with numerous regional events planned.

Reuse Month is celebrating six years of demonstrating how value can be found in everyday items and bringing awareness to Ireland’s growing Circular Economy. It is a waste prevention initiative that was developed by Ireland's three Waste Management Planning Offices, Connacht Ulster, Eastern Midlands and Southern Region. The flagship events will take place on October 7th, October 14th, and October 21st 2021 and all Reuse Month events are free of charge.

Ossian Smyth TD, Minister with responsibility for the Circular Economy said “I am delighted that Reuse Month is growing in momentum every year as it is an important initiative. It is vital that people try to keep materials in circulation for as long as possible. It creates significant savings and it has a positive impact on the environment. Reuse Month is the circular economy in action as it inspires so many to reuse materials.”

Declan Breen, Eastern Midlands Waste Management Planning Office said, “This year, more than ever, we are thrilled to see the creativity and engagement from around Ireland. The awareness around reuse and sustainability has grown significantly and people want to get involved. There are activities happening all over Ireland including interactive workshops, video tutorials, how-to guides, information campaigns and they are all free to attend. The aim of these activities is to give people the skills to repair their items rather than discard them.”

The Rediscovery Centre in Ballymun is running a series of online masterclasses including:
Reuse Fashion Masterclass - Thurs 7 Oct - book here
Upcycled Lamp Making Masterclass - Thurs 14 Oct - book here
Furniture Upcycling Masterclass - Thurs 21 Oct - book here
You can learn more about events taking place around the country by visiting Mywaste.ie