Nearly one in ten Belgians (9.5%) still throw away reusable items instead of giving them a second life, according to a survey released Thursday by second-hand sector stakeholders, which also found that used goods are particularly popular among young people.
The survey was published to mark “Earth Overshoot Day,” the date when humanity exhausts the year’s natural resources, falling on 24 July this year.
Results show that 63.1% of people up to the age of 34 sold second-hand items last year, compared to just 28.1% of those over 55. A similar trend is observed among buyers, with 52.3% of young people purchasing second-hand goods in 2024, while only 27.9% of those aged 55 and over did the same.
Clothing is by far the most popular category of second-hand goods, followed by books and toys.
Respondents primarily sell items for financial reasons (64%), but also because having fewer unused items brings them “peace of mind” (36%). Environmental awareness is also a factor for a third (33%).
Industry stakeholders highlight existing opportunities in the sector, noting that many Belgians continue to throw away items with potential value. “These are missed opportunities for both the environment and the wallet,” notes the Alliance for Reuse, which represents key players in the reuse and second-hand sector. “Everyone has something that deserves a second life.”
Moreover, more than three-quarters (77%) believe the government should do more to encourage reuse, including providing tax benefits, and they also assert that manufacturers should make products more easily repairable.
