Welsh repair cafés save over one million kilograms of carbon emissions

Amelia Jones

Repair cafés across Wales have helped prevent more than one million kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions by encouraging people to fix household items rather than replace them.

The figure, released this week, reflects the impact of a growing network of more than 130 repair cafés established with Welsh Government support.

Funded through approximately £14 million from the Welsh Government’s Circular Economy Fund, the cafés offer free repairs carried out by skilled volunteers, covering everything from clothing and electrical items to small household appliances.

The government’s Beyond Recycling strategy aims to prioritise repairing and reusing. Repair cafés are seen as a key part of that shift, helping to reduce waste while extending the life of everyday items.

Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies said the milestone demonstrated how repair and reuse can play a practical role in tackling climate change while helping households save money.

He added: “Wales is already second in the world for recycling, and now we are building a culture where repair and reuse become second nature.

“Reaching one million kilograms of carbon saved through our repair café network is an incredible milestone.

“When we repair rather than replace, we are tackling the climate and nature crisis and saving money.

“I am asking everyone in Wales to join Fix it February and give a broken item a second life for free.”

New skills

As well as reducing emissions, repair cafés offer opportunities for people to learn new skills and connect with local people.

Organisers say they also support lifelong learning and contribute to Wales’ broader green economy goals.

Phoebe Brown, Director of Repair Café Wales said: “This achievement reflects the dedication of volunteers and communities across Wales who are delivering real environmental and social benefits through repair.

“Repair cafés are about much more than fixing broken items. They help people save money, learn skills, and connect with their community whilst taking practical action on climate change.

“Fix it February is a brilliant opportunity for more people to get involved whether by visiting a repair café, learning new skills, or supporting a repair business in their local area.”

Alongside repair cafés, the Welsh Government have also made efforts to back initiatives such as libraries like Bethg Cyrmu and community reuse schemes at household waste centres across several Welsh counties.