Sustainable Consumption and Reuse Practices in Thrifting: An Islamic Ethical Perspective

Abstract

The rapid growth of thrifting practices and the increasing inflow of second-hand clothing into Indonesia raise critical questions regarding their consistency with sustainability principles and consumption ethics. This study aims to analyze how the concept of reuse operates within the context of a sustainable economy by examining the gap between the ideal framework of the circular economy and the empirical realities of large-scale second-hand clothing trade in developing countries. Employing a qualitative literature-based approach, this article integrates empirical data on international trade with theories of Sustainable Consumption, circular economy, and the rebound effect, alongside an analysis of Qur’anic verses addressing moderation, the prohibition of isrāf and tabżīr, and ecological responsibility. The findings indicate that although thrifting has the potential to extend product lifespans and reduce waste, these benefits may be diminished by the large-volume inflow of second-hand goods and excessive consumption behavior driven by perceptions of frugality. This dynamic generates risks of waste leakage and concealed forms of isrāf. The study concludes that the sustainability of reuse requires alignment between trade regulation, consumer behavior control, and the internalization of Islamic consumption ethics. The main contribution of this study lies in the development of an integrative framework that connects social phenomena, sustainability theory, and Islamic normative perspectives in evaluating thrifting practices