Local people urged to repair and reuse on International Repair Day
15 October 2026
Council is encouraging residents to embrace the principles of repair and reuse as communities around the world mark International Repair Day
Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging residents to embrace the principles of repair and reuse as communities around the world mark International Repair Day taking place on Saturday 17 October.
The annual awareness day highlights the environmental, economic and social benefits of repairing everyday items instead of replacing them, helping to reduce waste, save money and extend the lifespan of valued possessions.
International Repair Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the growing repair movement and raise awareness of the important role that repair plays in supporting a more sustainable and circular economy. From electrical appliances and bicycles to clothing, furniture and household goods, repairing items can prevent valuable resources from ending up in landfill while reducing the demand for new products.
To mark the occasion, residents are invited to attend the Repair Café at Repair & Share Foyle Rathmore Business Park, from 10am to 1pm or Repair Cafe Strabane, Grassroots Café from 10am – 12pm. The events will offer people the opportunity to bring along household items in need of repair, receive practical advice from skilled volunteers, and learn new repair skills in a welcoming community environment. The Repair Café aims to keep usable items in circulation for longer, while encouraging a culture of sharing, sustainability and waste prevention.
Encouraging people to get on board, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, said: “International Repair Day reminds us that small changes in our everyday habits can have a significant impact on the environment. By choosing to repair items instead of replacing them, residents can save money, reduce waste and help conserve valuable resources. We are delighted to support the Repair Cafés and encourage everyone across the district to come along, learn new skills and discover how repairing everyday items can make a real difference.”
Repairing and reusing products supports the principles of the circular economy by keeping materials in use for longer. Council continues to promote waste reduction and sustainability through a range of initiatives designed to encourage responsible consumption and environmental stewardship. Repairing and reusing items not only benefits the environment but also helps to preserve practical skills, strengthen community connections and support local enterprises.
Residents are encouraged to think twice before disposing of broken or damaged items and to explore opportunities for repair, refurbishment or donation where possible and making use of local reuse and repair initiatives before deciding to dispose of unwanted items.
The 4Rs New 2 You Reuse Centre at Pennyburn Recycling Centre accepts good-quality furniture and household items, while Repair & Share Foyle provides opportunities to repair small electrical appliances and other items that may otherwise be discarded. Items that cannot be repaired or reused can then be recycled through the appropriate channels.
For more information on waste reduction, recycling and sustainability initiatives across the district, visit www.derrystrabane.com/recycling