Student swap shop aims to save pounds – and the environment
A student housing block in Lewisham has launched a new scheme to help cut waste and give all types of goods a second lease of life.
According to those behind the move, the average person reportedly throws 400kg of waste away every year – or seven times their body weight, and the impact that individuals can have on the environment is significant.
The Vita Student Swap Shop at Exchange Point, Loampit Vale, aims to tackle this by encouraging students to share previously-loved items which they no longer have a use for, donating them to other residents.
Whether that’s last year’s expensive text books or an Instagram-worthy dress that needs a new lease of life, residents can now conveniently visit their hub reception to drop off goods or pick up a new item.
The aim is for students to help the environment and save money on expensive items they need for their studies such as textbooks which can be a significant cost. It is estimated that students spend around £17 per month on study materials like textbooks, and £34 per month on clothing.
Max Bielby, chief operating officer at Vita Student, said: “The Vita Student Swap Shop is a small, simple step that our students can take to living in a more sustainable way, giving previously loved items with plenty of life in them a new beginning.”
The Vita Student Swap Shop is currently only open to Vita Student residents and is located next to the foyer in the lobby of the building.
Pictured top: The Vita Student reception (Picture: Vita Student)