Tables, chairs, sofas, and much more could now be rehomed thanks to a reuse initiative from Somerset Council and their collections partner, SUEZ.
Joining forces with the British Heart Foundation (BHF) means that reusable and unwanted large items can get a second life.
Rather than being recycled, suitable items are now taken to the SUEZ depot in Bridgwater, where they are assessed before being passed on for re-sale at BHF’s Taunton store. The store makes good-quality furniture items more affordable for Somerset residents while also raising funds for the charity.
Recycling is great but buying less, reusing and repairing is always better for the environment. Working with community groups and charities helps to extend the life of items while also supporting a good cause.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Lead Member for Transport and Waste Services said:
“This is a great initiative, we want to make it as simple as possible for our pre-loved items to be loved for longer. We know our residents care about the environment, and this partnership makes it even easier to do the right thing with the items they no longer use.”
Matt Canning, Contract Director at SUEZ said:
“This initiative is about recognising the value in items that might otherwise be thrown away. By partnering with the British Heart Foundation, we’re able to reuse good-quality furniture and find it a new home instead of going to waste.”
Dan Wood, Area Manager at the British Heart Foundation, said:
“We’re delighted to be working in partnership with SUEZ and Somerset Council. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and reuse, while helping to fund our lifesaving research. It’s a great example of how partnerships with local organisations can create positive environmental and social impact.”
The British Heart Foundation runs second-hand charity furniture shops across Britian and will be able to sell items on for reuse.
Residents can book a bulky collection on the Somerset Council website, they should select to say happy for the items to be reused. Items need to be in good condition and/or working order and have the necessary fire safety tags.
Items that are not of good enough quality to be resold will be responsibly recycled.