To support reuse-friendly businesses - including repair, rental and resale - and celebrate International Repair Day, Denver is launching a new Reuse Business Directory. International Repair Day is Saturday, October 19 and celebrates the power of repair to bring our communities together and reduce our impact on the planet.
This user-friendly online platform helps community members discover businesses where they can repair, rent, or purchase used items—all while supporting the local economy. The directory features a diverse array of business categories, including thrift shops, tool rentals, and tailoring services, making it easy for people to find what they need.
"Many Denverites are eager to embrace sustainable practices by repairing, renting, or buying used items, but they often struggle to find the right places to do so," said Elizabeth Babcock, Executive Director of Denver's Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency (CASR). "The Reuse Business Directory empowers our community to connect with nearby shops, whether to mend a favorite jacket or rent a musical instrument for a child's school performance."
The directory is designed to be comprehensive yet intuitive, allowing users to search by specific items—from furniture to jewelry and watches.
In 2023, Denver's reuse businesses made a significant impact on the local economy, contributing over $540 million. Denver's reuse economy goes beyond just financial contributions; it plays a vital role in environmental sustainability. In 2023 alone, reuse businesses employed over 3,000 people and avoided an estimated 223,700 MT CO2e in emissions. This directory is part of CASR’s goal to reduce consumption, waste and pollution in Denver. To minimize waste, we’re creating a circular economy that relies on sharing, repairing, recycling and reusing materials.
To explore the Denver Reuse Business Directory, visit www.denvergov.org/reusedirectory