In a recent session hosted by Miljøministeriet and Miljøstyrelsen, our CEO Emil took part in a discourse that delved beyond waste sorting, focusing intensely on the necessity of establishing concrete goals and the need for tools for waste prevention. These discussions strike at the core of WeUse’s mission.
Philosophy in Action:
At WeUse, we stand firm on the principle that “Things are made to be used.” It’s not just a mantra; it’s our guiding principle, propelling us toward a more sustainable future. Sharing resources actively contributes to waste prevention. Overconsumption, identified as the biggest threat to sustainability by The World Economic Forum (2022), is addressed by encouraging the full utilization of items before they become redundant. We see our role as a provider of a practical solution, offering a platform for individuals and communities to share possessions, emphasizing the essence of “use” over “discard.”
The Carbon Dilemma:
Charlotte Louise Jensen’s revelation from CONCITO hit hard – the average Dane emits a staggering 13 tons of CO2 yearly. Even with conscientious lifestyle choices, such as collective living, veganism, electric vehicles, and second-hand shopping, we’d still be contributing 8.7 tons per person. Our collective goal? A mere 3 tons. In Denmark alone, there are more than 20 billion DKK worth of functional resources lying in garages and basements, mostly unused. Despite this, the pattern of buying things that are rarely used persists. SDG 12: “Responsible consumption and production” is, according to the UN, Denmark’s worst SDG performance. A power drill is, for example, on average, only used for 12 minutes in its lifetime. This clearly shows the need for action and impact education, but also the potential to support change in communities.
A Daunting Path Ahead:
While the journey might seem overwhelming, hope lies in witnessing dedicated individuals working on innovative solutions. Marked as a year of transformative changes, 2024 emerged prominently in yesterday’s discussions. It’s a collective call to action, reminding each of us of our pivotal role. As we navigate the complexities of carbon emissions, let’s remember that change begins with us. In 2024, let’s collectively strive toward that 3-ton goal.
