As a college student, storage space, time, and energy can be limited, but there are plenty of places willing to take unwanted items off of your hands.

Besides the trash can, there are two easy options for getting rid of the clutter: donating to a larger, well-known charity such as Goodwill Industries International, or donating to a local organization. While both are viable options, the main difference is where the items will end up.

Larger organizations distribute some items to their secondhand stores.

However, since donated goods often exceed buyer demand, some items, such as clothing, are sold to third party buyers and then resold in developing countries for profit.

“There are advantages and disadvantages to [donating to larger organizations],” said Peter Beck, assistant professor of environmental science and policy.

The advantages include access to quality clothing at a cheaper price, Beck said. However, this practice could potentially harm growing textile industries dependent on local business by forcing customers to choose the cheaper option.  

On the other hand, donating unwanted items to local organizations can benefit the local community by diverting unnecessary waste from landfills and supporting sustainable practices.

Austin has a number of businesses, charities, and organizations that will not only gladly accept that old homecoming t-shirt, but will also make every effort to redistribute it in a responsible and sustainable manner. Here are few options for those unwanted items:

Books Beyond Borders

Books Beyond Borders is a 501c nonprofit organization headquartered in Austin. They accept new and used textbooks via mail, their warehouse, and at the coffee shops listed below. The organization is also willing to accept books other than textbooks if the donor pays for shipping.

Accepts: new and gently used textbooks

Where: Books Beyond Borders at 622 Pedernales St., Austin Java at 12th and Lamar, and Underground Café 314 W 17th St.

When: Monday – Friday, 12 p.m.-4 p.m.

The fate of what you donate: The organization sells textbooks online and uses the money earned to support educational and community initiatives in Central America.

Website: www.booksbeyondborders.com/

Treasure City Thrift

Treasure City Thrift is a collectively owned, volunteer-run secondhand store. The store will pick up large donations after yard and estate sales and/or when requested. Most items are priced according to base prices listed on their website. In addition, Treasure City Thrift hosts a 25 cent Sidewalk Sale every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Accepts: Nearly anything.

Where: 2942 East 12th St.

When: Monday – Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

The fate of what you donate: Some goods are sold in store, or at their 25 cent Sidewalk Sale if they have been on display for more than two months. Some items are placed in a free box located in the front of the store. Donations are also shared with groups within their network. Treasure City also brings donations to the Really Really Free Market.

Website: http://www.treasurecitythrift.org

The Really Really Free Market

The Really Really Free Market is a festival that takes place on the last Sunday of each month. It is similar to a potluck of goods and resources because it encourages individuals to share what they can. This includes household items, clothing, books, ideas, and conversation.

Accepts: Whatever you have to share, support

Where: Chesnut Community Park on 2207 E 16th Street

When: Last Sunday of every month, 1-4 p.m.

The fate of what you donate: Depends.

Austin’s Yellow Bike Project

Austin’s Yellow Bike Project is a 501c nonprofit organization that operates a community bike shop called The Yellow Bike Shop. The organization accepts donations of bicycle parts and time. One can visit the shop to learn about bicycle mechanics and maintenance, as they show visitors and volunteers how to repair a bike on their own. While using the shop is technically free, the organization expects a donation of either cash or time in exchange for their services.

Accepts: Bicycles, locks with keys, bike lights, tools, tires and wheels in good condition, volunteers

Where: 1216 Webberville Rd. as well as various other locations throughout Austin. See their website for details.

When: Hours vary, see their website for details

The fate of what you donate: Donations are used in the shop to benefit the community and those who visit the shop either to give or receive services.

Website: http://austinyellowbike.org