Sustainable Clothes Swap Event

For some years STT member Ramune had been aware of clothes swapping events and their positive role in the circular economy. She had attended one of these events pre-Covid, and appreciated their benefits. Rather than throwing away perfectly serviceable clothes and buying new ones, people could update their wardrobe or change their style in a more economical way, and could reduce their environmental footprint in the process. This is an alternative to fast fashion, which is wasteful of raw materials, water and energy, and contributes to harmful gas emissions.

Ramune with the help of local resident Emma O’Toole, who is also President of the Environmental Society at Maynooth University organised STT’s first Clothes Swap event. They were supported by the management of the River Valley Community Centre, who allowed us to operate in the carpark outside their premises. The organisers are also very grateful to local residents for donating clothes rails and hangers for the event.

Emma designed the eye-catching poster, which clearly set out the rules for the day. Only a maximum of 5 items was allowed. Items had to be clean, and must not include underwear, swimming togs or sleepwear.

Being a clothes swap, if you brought e.g 3 items then you would have to take 3 items.

On the morning of May 6, 2023 hangers, tables, mirrors and some basic stock were in place in our large marquee. The first eager customers, both young and old, had already arrived before the 10 am start.

Ramune and Emma were ably assisted by a couple of STT members. Ramune’s young daughters, Rusne and Ula, really enjoyed being assistants for the day too.