The Magic of Upcycling in Ho Chi Minh City

Over five metric tons of pre-loved clothing were given a new lease of life over the weekend, as they were transported to a house on Hoa Hung Street, ready for reuse and a second chance. This mountain of clothing, totaling over ten thousand pounds, was given a new home and a new purpose, with many items still in excellent condition.

Administrator

24 March, 2025

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At the ‘Nha Nhieu La’ house, a unique initiative saw the collection of hand-me-down clothing, which was then distributed to ‘zero-dong stores’ for those in need.

This innovative project, a clothing swap with a twist, allowed people to exchange their pre-loved garments for something a little more… green. Yes, you guessed it – plants!

A university student, thrilled to be part of this eco-friendly exchange. Photo: Bao Tran

Meet Thanh Xuan, a 40-year-old local from District 5, who has participated in this clothing-for-plants swap not once, not twice, but three times! “It’s a wonderful feeling to know that my old clothes will find new life with someone who truly needs them,” she shared.

Xuan’s passion for the environment and belief in reducing waste shine through as she enthusiastically takes part in these activities, ensuring her pre-loved items stay out of landfills.

And the plant options? Succulents! Participants, like Nguyen Thi Man, a sophomore at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Education, were delighted to bring their old clothes and leave with a new plant baby to nurture. “I adore growing succulents, so this exchange is a win-win for me,” she said.

But wait, there’s more! ‘Nha Nhieu La’ doesn’t stop at clothing exchanges. They also organize swaps for old batteries, plastic bottles, and used cooking oil, all in exchange for plants. It’s a brilliant way to encourage people to part with their unwanted items, knowing they’ll be recycled and given new purpose.

Community members unite, exchanging their old clothes for plants with a heartfelt purpose. Photo: Bao Tran

Clothing donations piled high, ready to find new homes. Photo: Bao Tran

The ‘Nha Nhieu La’ house, a hub of sustainability and community spirit. Photo: Bao Tran

Participants proudly pose with their plant picks. Photo: Bao Tran

Volunteers load up, ensuring the donations reach those in need. Photo: Bao Tran

Le Thi Thanh Dung, a dedicated volunteer at ‘Nha Nhieu La,’ explained the heart behind these initiatives: “We want to encourage a circular economy, giving new life to pre-loved items and reducing waste. It’s all about minimizing environmental pollution while bringing the community together.”