I've lived in Washington DC for five years now, and when I'm not working, I spend a lot of my time exploring the thrift and antique stores throughout the DMV.

Secondhand shopping is a fantastic way to reduce our carbon footprint, preserve the water that is wasted in production processes, and slow the rate of material waste.

It's also a unique way to boost our economy: thrift and antique stores not only support charities that serve marginalized people, but they also encourage more thoughtful and long-term shopping choices and spending habits.

My favorite part of what I do is the variety: some people need a coffee table book about turtles for their best friend, while others just moved into a new apartment and need a few kitchen basics to get started. Some are always on the lookout for new board games, and others check in occasionally to ask if I've seen another piece of their growing Pyrex cookware collection.

It's a thrill to know that thrift stores already have what we need - it's just up to us to find it!