The NSW Environment Minister has urged the public to carefully consider their donations to charity stores, in an effort to stop them becoming a “dumping ground for unwanted, unusable goods” after Christmas.
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“Donating unwanted goods is a great way to help those less fortunate, but as a rule of thumb if it ain’t fit for a mate, then don’t donate,” Minister Mark Speakman said.
He said Australian charities received almost 800,000 tonnes of goods each year, but around a third of these donations cannot be reused or recycled.
This means charities are left to foot the bill for more than 250,000 tonnes of waste each year, he said.
Anglicare Operations Manager for Shops and Factories Julie McAuley said thoughtful donations were vital for the charity.
“We are always grateful for the many people who donate generously and thoughtfully,” she said.
“As profits from our shops fund our community programs in Sydney and the Illawarra, their contribution not only helps the environment, but also assists our work.”
“A simple piece of clothing that one person may no longer need can also be loved again by others and put to good use. There are a lot of ways a considered donation can assist the community.”