The Idea Dont throw it away, give it away The problem: Average person in the UK sends about 319kg to landfill per year The solution Free gifts to keep stuff out of landfill Sofas, computers, clothes, Giant African Land-Snails, World War II air-raid shelters… Free to join, free to use Saves money, effort and the planet

Using it Local virtual communities Go to Find a local group on Yahoo, e.g. Reply to WANTED or OFFER mails Send them yourself People sort out collection between themselves

Running It What needs doing? – Moderating groups – Spreading the word – Tools and Processes Who does it? – Entirely volunteer-run – 200 groups across the UK – Nearly 1 million members – Hundreds of volunteers

Engaging volunteers – Vital to flourish – Varied skills and temperaments – Decision-making Keeping it local – Consistency vs flexibility Traps – Trademark & enforcement – Funding vicious circle The Challenges

Why it works Makes it easy – low barrier to entry Variety of motives – Environment – Community – Finance – Convenience Technology creating community

Summary Dont throw it away, give it away Simple brilliant idea …underpinned by technology Unique virtual movement …with unique challenges Throwing stuff away should be like drink-driving …responsible citizens just dont do it