It is easy to get caught up in the idea that newer is better, but what if we took a step back and looked at the value of what we already have? Repair is about more than just fixing things — it is about creating a new way of thinking about our relationship with the objects in our lives.
Yes, first and foremost, repair offers an environmental benefit: repairing our things reduces waste and the demand for new products & resources. According to a recent study by SUEZ, every day an estimated 35,500 items that could be repaired and reused, are disposed of at household waste recycling centres.
But there is more than that. It is about treasuring our special items, because of the associated memories or because it is a family heirloom, such as a coronation glove (we all have one of those in a drawer somewhere!).
If you are repairing something yourself, there is of course the personal satisfaction, the euphoric “I have done it” factor. Or as iFixit describes it: “If you can’t fix it, you don’t own it”.
Sometimes you need a helping hand, from volunteers at a community repair event or from professionals. Using these local repair services supports (typically) small businesses and the local economy.
That all sounds great, but almost 47% of people do not typically consider repair. Some people may not feel confident in their ability to repair things, or may not know how to find someone who can help. In some cases, the cost of repair may be extremely expensive, especially if the product is designed to be near-impossible to repair. It can also be difficult to find replacement parts for older or obscure items, although the advent of 3D printing is a game-changer for this.
But thankfully, the world is changing and embracing repair. The Right to Repair movement is building, in Europe and the USA. This will further encourage commercial repair by individuals and independent businesses. Community repair efforts are increasing. Platforms like The Repair Finder make it easier for everyone to find a repairer in the UK.
So, what will you repair next? What was your proudest repair. We would love to hear from you.
