Why borrowing locally matters more than you think
By Max van Nijnatten – 4 minute read
Why sharing items matters
At first glance, owning things might feel like the most convenient option. But when we look closer, individual ownership often leads to underused items, wasted resources, and overconsumption. A drill that’s used for 13 minutes in its entire lifetime, or a baby stroller used for a single season, still consumes raw materials, energy, and emissions during production.
Sharing items flips this equation. By borrowing instead of buying — whether it’s tools, appliances, clothes, or equipment — we extend the lifespan of existing goods, reduce the demand for new production, and significantly cut carbon emissions. Sharing helps us live within the limits of our planet’s resources while making everyday life more affordable and less wasteful.
Why the local aspect is crucial
But here’s the key: local sharing amplifies these benefits. When neighbors borrow from neighbors, emissions from transport drop. When a community pools resources, money stays local and relationships strengthen. Local sharing builds trust, resilience, and social connection — all vital ingredients for a thriving, sustainable neighborhood.
What’s more, local solutions are uniquely adaptable. What works in a big city might not work in a rural village. By focusing on local needs, cultures, and habits, communities can create flexible sharing systems that feel natural and rewarding to participate in. This is where the circular economy becomes more than just theory — it becomes lived practice.
How ivault supports local sharing
That’s where tools like ivault come in. ivault’s platform empowers people to share what they own and borrow what they need — safely, easily, and locally. By connecting people within their immediate neighborhoods, it reduces barriers to sharing, increases trust, and helps communities unlock the full potential of their underused resources.
Recently featured on the sustainability blog MyGreenCity, ivault stands out not just for its technology, but for how it fosters local action. The platform doesn’t just promote sustainability; it encourages people to look around, connect with their neighbors, and make choices that benefit their local environment and community.
A ripple effect of local action
Local sharing may start small — borrowing a drill, lending a suitcase — but its impact ripples outward. Every act of sharing reduces waste, cuts emissions, strengthens communities, and moves us toward a circular, sustainable future.
Next time you need something, pause and ask: can I borrow this from someone nearby? With platforms like ivault, the answer is often just a few taps away — and that local connection might just be the most powerful sustainability tool of all.