Antiques Will Save the World - A Case for Sustainable Furnishing

Explore the environmental and aesthetic benefits of antiques in this TEDxStormont talk by Justin Lowry, owner of Ireland's largest antique and vintage store. Discover how antiques represent the ultimate form of recycling, having been passed down for centuries, and learn why embracing vintage furniture is a sustainable alternative to disposable consumerism. Examine the environmental costs of contemporary mass-produced furniture and its shrinking lifespan, and understand how choosing antiques can help reduce waste and production. Gain insights into Lowry's passion for collecting, restoring, and repurposing items, and consider his call for a "reuse revolution" to combat the throwaway culture. Reflect on the importance of rethinking our approach to furnishing homes and the potential for antiques to contribute to a more sustainable future.