Swap stops are coming to three locations across the city
Crews are putting the finishing touches on three new swap stops around the city. Swap stops offer residents a place to exchange everyday items while supporting the circular economy.
The first swap stop opened at Sundlaugavegur last year. Residents welcomed the pilot, prompting the addition of two more swap stops this summer—one at Eiríksgata and another at Sogavegur.
This expansion brings services closer to residents, encouraging them to make the most of what they already have instead of buying new or throwing things away.
All three swap stops are located at recycling drop-offs, and SORPA bs. will manage them just as it does other recycling drop-offs across the capital area. The swap stop itself is a prime example of the circular economy—a repurposed bus shelter outfitted with shelves.
For smaller household items
As the shelves suggest, swap stops are designed for smaller household items. They are not meant for clothing, books, toiletries, knives, or food. For the swap stops to succeed, everyone must care for the space and leave only clean, usable items. Each swap stop displays guidelines inside.
The idea works just like the Free Shop at Gerðuberg City Library, where people swap small useful items for free. Fríbúðin, Reykjavík City's Free Shop, is currently closed for reorganization but will reopen later this month.
Everyone is welcome to participate—simply stop by, drop off an item, and see what is available. Since crews are finalizing the swap stops today, the shelves still need time to fill up.
Everyone is welcome—happy swapping!