The event – running from 3 to 9 March – aims to encourage residents to repair and reuse items instead of discarding them, helping to reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and save money.
Sutton is joining the London-wide initiative to promote sustainability as it takes part in London Repair Week 2025, running from 3 to 9 March. The event aims to encourage residents to repair and reuse items instead of discarding them, helping to reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and save money.
With an increasing number of Sutton residents embracing repair and reuse, the borough is reinforcing the importance of extending the lifespan of household items. Repairing broken goods rather than throwing them away cuts down on waste and conserves valuable resources. Choosing to fix instead of replace also helps reduce emissions from manufacturing, keeps quality products in circulation for longer, and contributes to a more sustainable community.
One of the most pressing issues of our time is climate change, and adopting repair habits can play a vital role in reducing carbon footprints. At the same time, as the cost of living continues to rise, repairing everyday items is often a more affordable alternative to purchasing new ones. In many cases, repairing a well-made product is not only more economical but also helps preserve craftsmanship and quality.
For residents keen to repair their items but unsure where to start, Sutton Repair Café is hosting a special Repair Week event on Saturday, 8 March, at YourSpace in Sears Park.
For residents keen to repair their items but unsure where to start, Sutton Repair Café is hosting a special Repair Week event on Saturday, 8 March, at YourSpace in Sears Park. Local volunteers at Sutton Repair Café and Ruskin Road Repair Café in Carshalton regularly help residents fix broken items at monthly events, offering hands-on assistance and guidance. Those looking for specialised repair services can explore the South London Zero Waste Map, which lists businesses that repair bicycles, clothing, electricals, and more.
Sutton residents can also take advantage of the Library of Things, a scheme that allows people to borrow tools, cleaning equipment, and party supplies instead of buying them. At the same location, visitors can find books on practical repair skills, such as sewing, woodworking, and electronics, encouraging more people to take up repairing as a useful and rewarding activity.
For those interested in upcycling or looking for second-hand items to repair, the Reuse Shop at Sutton Council’s Recycling Centre on Kimpton Park Way offers furniture, bicycles, and small electricals that can be restored and given a new lease on life. The shop also provides an opportunity for residents to donate items in good working condition that might otherwise go to waste, ensuring they can be reused by others in the community.
When items are beyond repair or reuse, Sutton Council reminds residents to dispose of them responsibly. Small electricals, wooden furniture, appliances, and textiles can all be taken to local recycling facilities. The Let’s Recycle locator is a useful tool for finding the nearest appropriate recycling point.
By taking part in London Repair Week, Sutton is reinforcing its commitment to reducing waste, lowering emissions, and fostering a culture of sustainability. Encouraging residents to repair, reuse, and recycle plays a crucial role in building a greener, more resilient borough while helping households save money and resources.
Repair Week in Wandsworth
In Wandsworth, events include Dr Bike safety checks, repair club open evenings, and hands-on sessions for basic bike maintenance and puncture repairs. Regular repair cafés will also run in Tooting, Southfields, and Putney, offering local residents the chance to fix household items rather than throw them away.
Judi Gasser, Wandsworth Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, emphasised the importance of repairing over replacing: “Recycling is good, but reducing the amount of waste we produce is even better. Many items are discarded unnecessarily when they only need a minor fix to be as good as new. London Repair Week is a fantastic opportunity to gain new skills, connect with the community, and give items a second life.”
For those who prefer to donate rather than repair, the Rework Workshop at Smugglers Way is accepting home furniture, white goods, bicycles, sports equipment, toys, tools, and bric-a-brac in good cosmetic condition. Items will be repaired and donated to charities, ensuring they find a second home rather than ending up in landfill.
Wandsworth Council remains committed to reducing waste and increasing recycling as part of its ambitious goal to become a carbon-neutral council by 2030. Initiatives like Repair Week and climate action microgrants—awarded to community groups, schools, and individuals for sustainability projects—are key to making this vision a reality.
Residents keen to get involved in shaping Wandsworth’s sustainability plans are invited to attend the next Wandsworth Sustainability Network meeting on 18 March to share ideas and learn more about upcoming initiatives.
