A grassroots movement to offer second chances to people and products

A grassroots movement to offer second chances to people and products? It’s possible!

Meet Insieme Cooperativa Sociale - their roots trace back to the 1970s, during the economic boom in Northeast Italy. Amid rising consumerism, waste piled up and social inequalities deepened. In response, the cooperative was established to give both people and things a second chance.

Today, Insieme operates across multiple sites, including waste collection centres, preparation for reuse plants and secondhand stores. In addition to other waste streams, they prepare furniture and mattresses for reuse and make them available for resale.

With a dedicated team of employees, half of whom are from disadvantaged backgrounds, Insieme fosters skill-building and work experience, creating pathways for social reintegration and empowerment.

Insieme means together!

This case study is part of our Social Enterprises’ Role in Furniture and Mattresses’ Circularity project: https://www.rreuse.org/our-work/projects/social-enterprises-role-in-furniture-and-mattresses-circula...

Discover more about Insieme Cooperativa Sociale: https://insiemesociale.it/

Picture Credits: Insieme Cooperativa Sociale