Businesses promote green living
BY STEFFANEY CLARK Gulf Breeze News news@gulfbreezenews.com

Gulf Breeze residents and businesses are learning that recycling is much more than just sorting trash into paper, plastic and organic. Consignment shops are a great way to recycle one's old belongings, and buy new used items for a fraction of the price of retail.

Elite Repeats in Gulf Breeze has a wide variety of in season clothing with terrific prices.

The shop is a "great way to buy designer clothing at a fraction of the price," says owner Lisa Compton, who found Elite Repeats helpful after losing all of her clothes when her house flooded during Hurricane Ivan.

"The consignor brings in season clothing that they no longer want and we sell it and split the profit," she explains. "Shopping consignment is great because it looks like you spent a lot of money without spending much at all."

Another great way to recycle your used sports equipment is through Fair Play Sport in Gulf Breeze.

"Often times, kids grow much faster than cleats and bats wear out," said owner Cathy Benoit. "If they're still in good condition we buy them and help sell them."

The sports store will also put the items you are willing to sell towards paying for other pieces of equipment in the store.

"Playing sports is very expensive when you add up rec fees and all the gear needed for most sports," Benoit said.

Fair Play Sports offers sports gear at around half of normal retail price.

"People love when we can help them get great deals, but unfortunately most people don't know about consignment sports shops so they don't get to take advantage of the great prices," Benoit added.

So if you're not in the mood to start sorting your trash, taking advantage of the consignment shops in Gulf Breeze is a great way to earn and save money by recycling used furniture, sports equipment and clothing.