Overcoming the cost of green living.
Nearly a third (32%) of surveyed UK consumers confirmed they’d purchase pre-loved or refurbished items because it's better for the environment.The cost-of-living crisis has presented real challenges for consumers seeking to adopt more sustainable lifestyles. According to a 2024 survey by Deloitte, the main reasons for not adopting a more sustainable lifestyle in 2024 remained unchanged from last year and relate to cost. This reality is especially difficult for students, with 64% of students most concerned about the cost of living, as reported by the Office for Students.
However, the crisis has also led to a surge in second-hand shopping. eBay reported that sales of apparel and accessories with "thrifted" in the item description grew over 400% globally from March 2023 to March 2024 Mark Monte-Colombo, Head of Refurbished Technology for eBay UK, noted that “Despite challenging times, consumers still genuinely care about the environment. Nearly a third (32%) of UK consumers we surveyed confirmed they’d purchase pre-loved or refurbished items because it's better for the environment.”
eBay has embraced this trend, launching "Pre-Loved Fashion Week" in London and New York to showcase authentic designer fashion that is more accessible. The company has also partnered with Elton John to release a personal collection of pre-loved fashion items, with proceeds benefiting the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Beyond eBay, apps like Depop and Vinted offer great ways to buy and sell second-hand clothes, while rental platforms like HURR and ByRotation provide access to special occasion outfits at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Research suggests that renting is one of the best ways to support the environment, along with leasing, updating, repairing, and reselling.
When it comes to food, the cost-of-living crisis has hit hard, with food and non-alcoholic drink inflation rising by 25% between January 2022 and January 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics. You could try choosing more vegetarian and vegan meals, eat more seasonal foods and cut back on dining out to try and tackle these growing costs.
Strategies like meal planning, freezing leftovers, and buying frozen vegetables can help reduce food waste and save money. Apps like SideKick, from Sorted Food, can also assist in creating recipe packs that share ingredients across different meals, ensuring all fresh food is used up.
While navigating the cost-of-living crisis and sustainability can be challenging, there are numerous ways to cut costs while being environmentally conscious. By embracing second-hand shopping, renting, and sustainable food practices, consumers can find ways to support the planet and their wallets.
If you’re looking to treat yourself to something new, here are some sustainable but affordable brands we can recommend:
Nobody's Child is a UK-based brand that offers affordable, sustainable fashion. The brand uses eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester in its collections.
2. Boody
Boody is a sustainable basics brand that creates clothing from bamboo, which is a renewable and biodegradable material. The brand focuses on ethical manufacturing practices.
Plant Faced Clothing is a vegan and ethical clothing brand that uses recycled and organic materials. The brand is committed to reducing waste and supporting environmental causes.
4. Pretty You
Pretty You is an affordable, ethical lingerie brand that uses sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyester. The brand is focused on body positivity and inclusivity.
5. Komodo
Komodo is a UK-based sustainable fashion brand that uses natural, organic, and recycled materials in its collections. The brand also focuses on ethical manufacturing practices.