Every year, billions of pounds of perfectly usable items are thrown away and end up in landfills across the United States. While landfills are built to handle waste, they still pose serious environmental threats—releasing the potent greenhouse gas methane, leaking toxic chemicals into the soil, and disrupting ecosystems where wildlife lives. 

But each of us can make a difference. By choosing to thrift, donate, and recycle, we help keep valuable items out of landfills and protect the planet for future generations.

Thrift Shopping Keeps Goods Out of Landfills 

When you choose to shop at Deseret Industries instead of buying new, you're helping the planet. In 2024, shoppers at Deseret Industries thrift stores saved more than 43 million items from going into landfills. That’s millions of items like clothing, books, toys, and furniture that got a second chance. 

Why thrift instead of buying new? 

• Older items often last longer and are built better, making them just one of the many treasures you can find at a thrift store. 

• Thrifting is affordable and open to everyone. It’s a way for people from all walks of life to care for the planet. 

• Every item has a story—and many are one-of-a-kind. Thrift stores are full of unique finds you won’t see anywhere else, from vintage fashion to rare home goods. 

When you shop at Deseret Industries, you’re also supporting a bigger mission: providing job training and real-life work experience for people in your community. 

Clean Energy Efforts 

With 46 stores across the United States, Deseret Industries is also working behind the scenes to be more eco-friendly. To help, Deseret Industries does the following: 

• Strives to reduce fuel waste by ensuring each shipment is completely full before leaving for another location

• Follows all state and national guidelines for clean energy standards in stores (including high-efficiency HVAC units, the type of lighting used, and the use of skylights where possible)

• Uses automatic timers for lighting, heating, and cooling for high efficiency

The Humanitarian Center: Giving Goods a Second Life 

The Latter-day Saint Humanitarian Center in Salt Lake City is part of the Deseret Industries family. It takes donated items that are either surplus donations or didn’t sell and recycles or repurposes them to help people in need around the world. It’s also a place where people receive job training and life skills, preparing them for future employment.

In 2024 alone, Deseret Industries recycled more than 75 million pounds of goods with the help of the Humanitarian Center. That’s a huge win for both people and the planet.

Your Donations Make a Difference 

Have gently used items you no longer need? Don’t toss them, donate them to Deseret Industries.

In 2024, people like you donated 3.8 million loads of goods to DI’s 46 stores. Every box, bag, or bin helps keep good items out of landfills and puts them into the hands of someone who can use them. 

Your donations help: 

• Support local job training. 

• Reduce waste.

• Provide affordable goods for others.

Big change starts with small choices. Shopping at DI keeps reusable items out of landfills and keeps our planet a little cleaner.

Find your nearest Deseret Industries Thrift Store and Donation Center to be part of something bigger by caring for people and the planet at the same time.