The study used a nationally representative survey of 1,009 people from every US state. Researchers analysed answers about buying and discarding clothing in both new and resale markets. They found a positive correlation between spending in secondhand and primary clothing markets.
The link was strongest among younger consumers and frequent shoppers. More than 69% of respondents had bought secondhand clothes at least once. A cluster representing 59% reported high consumption in both new and used clothes; members of that group often returned items, kept garments for short periods, and had increased secondhand purchases since 2020.
The authors cite behavioural ideas such as the rebound effect and moral licensing to explain how secondhand markets can reinforce overconsumption. They recommend policies so resale practices better match sustainability goals.
Difficult words
- representative — showing the main features of a population
- resale — sale of used goods to new buyers
- correlation — a connection between two things or measures
- respondent — a person who answers survey questionsrespondents
- cluster — a group of similar people or items
- consumption — the act of buying and using goods
- rebound effect — a result that reduces an intended benefit
- moral licensing — feeling allowed to behave worse after doing good
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why might younger consumers and frequent shoppers show a stronger link between new and secondhand purchases?
- Have you ever bought both new and secondhand clothes? How do you decide which to buy?
- What kinds of policies could help make resale practices support sustainability goals?
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