Recent years have witnessed a shrinking of the lifespans of consumer goods, following trends in fast-fashion and planned obsolescence in consumer electronics. These patterns of unsustainable consumption lead to many consumer goods being thrown away after only a small amount of time, while perfectly usable.

Reuse hubs and networks can present a tangible solution to support the reuse of consumer goods. Reuse hubs provide a physical location to collect and offer consumer goods that are repaired, repurposed, reused. Consumer goods could range from furniture, to electronics, to clothing, and other consumer goods. Reuse hubs could even go as far as becoming a fully circular shopping centre, offering access to all different types of consumer goods. What is more, reuse hubs and supporting repair activities can be connected throughout a city to form a network to enable access to such goods and services throughout the entirety of a city.

Local governments can support the development of reuse hubs by providing both financial and in-kind support, zoning particular areas for experimentation and reuse. Local governments can also play a key role in connecting existing activities throughout the city. What’s more, local governments can play a key role in promoting reuse and repair activities throughout a city to reduce marketing costs of these businesses and raise awareness for residents. Local governments may also stimulate skills development and make training available to repair and reuse organisations.