Oxfam has teamed up with An Post to launch a doorstep donation scheme aimed at boosting donations and supporting the circular economy.
'PostBack' involves households ordering a free donation bag (online via oxfamireland.org or via phone 1800 062 062) and filling it with items such as clothes, books and toys (up to 10kg in weight).
Multiple bags - which are recyclable - can be ordered, and will be delivered by An Post.
A free collection of the bag can be arranged or it can be dropped off at a post office.
The service has been in operation on a limited basis since earlier this year, which has seen more than 20,000 bags ordered and items with a resale value of over €205,000 donated and sold in Oxfam shops in Ireland.
Oxfam said that since April over 40 tonnes of textiles have been diverted from landfill through such donations.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon said the service is "a brilliant example of how innovation can make sustainability simple and accessible for everyone".
"By turning doorstep donations into a simple way to protect our environment, PostBack makes sustainability something everyone can do," he said.
"Partnerships like this between Oxfam Ireland and An Post show what's possible when trusted organisations work together for the common good. Every bag donated is a step toward a circular economy and a cleaner, greener Ireland," he added.
'More than a donation scheme'
Oxfam Ireland Chief Executive Jim Clarken described PostBack as "more than a donation scheme".
"It's a movement towards conscious living. It encourages people to declutter with purpose, knowing their clothes and pre-loved items will go to making a difference in people’s lives all around the world. A small action will have a big impact," he said.
Mr Clarken said the service allows Oxfam Ireland "to fund our humanitarian aid in Gaza and respond to emergencies as they happen. It helps to fund our longer-term development work such as food security, climate action and women’s empowerment in Africa."
An Post chief executive David McRedmond said the initiative is "a great example of how we can all work together for the common good through world-class innovation and collaboration".
"Growing the circular economy is a priority for An Post and an important growth area for Ireland, its people and charities," he added.
Oxfam said around 52%–55% of the clothing it receives is classed as "wearable" after sorting and these items are sold through its network of shops across Ireland.
