In his thought-provoking TED Talk, OTSE owner and sustainability advocate Justin Lowry discusses conscious consumption and environmental activism. Justin delves into the power of repurposing items, an inherent business practise of OTSE. 95% of our stock goes to new homes instead of making its way to landfill.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do here at OTSE, both in giving new life to antique items and sourcing ethically made items for our ReFound concession. We ensure to reuse all cardboard, plastic bags and bubble wrap where possible, recycling what cannot be used. These efforts earned us a Green Tourism badge in 2022 and since then we have only expanded upon our eco-friendly policies.
We hope not only to minimise our own environmental impact but inspire our customers to do the same and answer the question: why is sustainability important? With your help we can shape a more sustainable future, one refurbished piece at a time.
Click here to watch the TED talk and here to learn more about OTSE’s commitment to sustainability. Join us in embracing the future of reuse, repurpose, and responsible consumption for a greener, more equitable world.
Why is sustainability important?
Today, speed and convenience are often valued above all else, but this is having detrimental effects on our planet. Studies suggest that climate change could be irreversible by 2030. The time to make changes is already upon us.
How can sustainability benefit you?
At OTSE, we are working against the impact of ‘fast furniture.’ The average piece of flatpack furniture can last as little as three years, ending its days in landfill. It may seem cheap and convenient at first, but customers end up paying more in the long run to replace these low-quality items. Many of our items here at OTSE have already seen decades of use and have been given a second life by us so that they can be with you even longer.
Is sustainability feasible?
In a world where trends change with the weather, some may think that it is impossible to keep up without feeding into overconsumption. However, at OTSE we believe in developing an individual style through timeless and unique products, proving that sustainability and style are not at odds with one another.
Check out some of our popular sustainable items from our ReFound section here:
- ReFound Notebooks: The most sustainable notebook you’ll ever own! Made from recycled materials.
- Black & White Heads Cushion: Locally designed fabric.
- The Basket Room: Hand-woven baskets. Each basket is supplied with a thank you card from the weaving cooperative.
- Bricolage Artwork: Beautiful new quilt-works by local textile artist.
- Quilted Cotton Mattress: Hand-spun, hand-woven, and hand-dyed natural cotton.
Check out other areas of OTSE for antique and upcycled items: rugs, furniture, lighting, outdoor, military, collectibles, ironmongery, mid-century, salvage.
For more information on the Green Tourism Badge click here.
To find out more about our business click here.