Kernow Reuse Shops Save 500 Tonnes of Items From Waste in Cornwall

Around 500 tonnes of pre-loved items have been saved from the skips and given a second lease of life through Kernow Reuse Shops across Cornwall.

More than 100,000 items have been sold since the shops began opening at Household Waste and Recycling Centres around the Duchy over the past 18 months.

Shops Across Cornwall

The reuse shops are run by SUEZ Recycling and Recovery, which manages Cornwall’s waste on behalf of Cornwall Council. Their aim is to divert usable items away from the waste stream so they can be reused or recycled.

The first Kernow Reuse Shop opened at Truro Household Waste and Recycling Centre in September 2024. The latest shop, in Helston, was officially launched on 4th February.

Kernow Reuse Shops can currently be found at St Erth, Bude, St Austell, Truro, Falmouth, United Downs and Launceston, with more locations expected to open in the coming months.

📷Credit: Cornwall Council

What You’ll Find in Store

The shops stock a wide range of items, including toys, sports equipment, furniture, homeware and electricals. All items are sold at affordable prices, giving residents the chance to save money while reducing waste.

What They’re Saying

Councillor Loic Rich, cabinet member with responsibility for Environment and Climate Change at Cornwall Council, said:
“It’s fantastic that so many pre-loved items are being given a new lease of life through the Kernow Reuse Shops. 500 tonnes is a huge milestone and shows just how popular the shops have become.

“It’s brilliant that we now have eight reuse shops across Cornwall and I’m looking forward to seeing more open in the coming months.”

Becky Parry, Renew Manager for SUEZ, said:
“In just over a year, Kernow Reuse shops are creating new opportunities for reuse, supporting the circular economy, and helping residents save money and reduce waste. Kernow Reuse shops’ success highlights public support for reuse initiatives and shows how reuse can deliver environmental, social and economic benefits to the area.”

Craig Mouatt, Regional Manager for SUEZ, added:
“Our mission is to inspire individuals to think about how they consume and reuse resources. It reflects our shared commitment to sustainability, reducing waste, and giving valuable items a second life.”

📷Credit: Cornwall Council

What Happens to Cornwall’s Rubbish

Cornwall’s rubbish that cannot be reused is processed at the Cornwall Energy Recovery Centre in St Dennis.

The centre uses Cornwall’s rubbish as fuel to generate sustainable energy, producing enough electricity each year to power around 21,000 homes.

📷Credit: Cornwall Council