As part of our project Social enterprises’ role in furniture and mattresses’ circularity, RREUSE has identified more than 1,300 sites across our network where social enterprises are keeping furniture in use with over 90 extending their work to mattresses. At these sites, social enterprises collect unwanted bulky waste from various donors, including individuals, waste management centres and businesses.
Instead of being discarded, they are repaired, refurbished or upcycled, and prepared for reuse. Each piece is offered a genuine second chance, contributing significantly to waste reduction.
What sets these initiatives apart is their strong social impact. This work is carried out by people distanced from the traditional labour market. For them, every table restored or mattress cleaned is not just a task, but an opportunity to gain skills, build confidence, and take steps toward long-term employment.
As part of this project, we will feature about 15 case studies from countries including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Slovenia, Spain and the UK.
These stories highlight innovative and impactful work, from upcycling and reselling furniture from public authorities and companies to providing functional homes for families at risk of social exclusion.
Follow our channels to discover these stories and the people making them possible!
