SWAP: A Reintroduction

By Katherine Dawson

Although Sharing with a Purpose (SWAP) was not technically on hiatus last year, we must acknowledge that the COVID-19 pandemic put us all in a tailspin. With less foot traffic on campus and limited event opportunities, it is possible we haven't been properly introduced. Perhaps I should reacquaint you with SWAP and our mission. SWAP is one of several student-run organizations on campus, but it is the only not-for-profit. Founded in 2008, SWAP’s mission is to promote the re-use of goods – clothing and otherwise – at Washington University. We want to make sustainability accessible to everyone through the means of education and exchange. During the school year, SWAP owners, interns, and volunteers run the trading post, a second-hand clothing store. Inside, everything is free. Shopping second-hand helps keep tons of material out of landfills (in fact, in 2017 SWAP diverted approximately 20 tons of material away from the dump). The World Economic Forum estimates the fashion industry produces 10% of human carbon emissions. It is also the second-largest consumer of the world’s water supply. Sadly, 85% of all textiles end up in a landfill each year. Curtailing the rise in fast fashion is paramount for the future of our planet. Upcoming blog posts will contain informational resources to help students expand their knowledge of the climate crisis and environmental justice. Above all, I hope to empower students to discover and implement individual actions to minimize their impact. I would be remiss not to communicate the role corporations and governments have played in destroying our environment. Independent action can only take us so far. Ultimately, advocating for structural change at the local, national, and international levels is necessary.

While SWAP’s trading post functions as its principal mode of impact on campus, we hold various events throughout the year. Rapidly approaching is our annual Move-In sale. On August 20th and 21st, SWAP will camp out on the swamp, offering second-hand dorm essentials (fridges, microwaves, mirrors…) at a significantly reduced price – up to 75% off. For those looking to buy items early, our pre-sale starts on August 10th (today!) and ends when supplies run out. This sale is just one way SWAP aims to make WashU a more eco-friendly and inclusive campus, and we plan to have plenty more events in the 2021-22 school year. However, we would love to hear from students about your wants and needs. Feel free to email swapstl@gmail.com with any ideas, questions, or concerns.