A sustainable, circular, and social urban initiative designed for residents within buildings. The main goal is to reduce consumption in the community, promoting a circular economy and fostering a more sustainable environment in cities.
The project aims to reduce unnecessary consumption by promoting the sharing of infrequently used products, fostering a cooperative economy. In a world driven by consumerism, this alternative approach encourages resource efficiency and minimizes waste. By creating community hubs within buildings, the project strengthens social engagement, fostering interaction and cooperation among residents. It also supports circularity by extending the lifespan of products through shared use, reducing the need for constant production and consumption. The initiative directly addresses environmental impact by lowering waste and promoting sustainable consumption.
Please describe your project, reflecting on the concept, inspiration, materials, technical aspects, methods and process(es).
Share-it! is a social and environmental platform designed as an automated vending machine, enabling residents to share essential tools and strengthen community ties in large residential buildings. The project encourages a circular economy by reducing unnecessary consumption and promoting sustainability. Users can borrow tools like drills, projectors, tents, and bicycle pumps for time periods ranging from one hour to three days. The process is seamless—items are returned to the machine, similar to a library borrowing system, but fully automated. The machine’s structure is constructed from durable aluminum and iron, with a facade made of recycled light birch wood, reflecting a commitment to sustainable materials. The system is managed via a dedicated app, which ensures smooth operation and technical support. Share-it! fosters a sense of community while reducing individual spending and waste, offering a practical, eco-friendly solution to everyday needs.
What do you think makes your project innovative compared to the existing efforts and ideas in the field it addresses?
What makes Share-it! innovative is its focus on individual residents—those who occasionally need tools but don’t want to purchase them for one-time use. It offers a fully automated, easy-to-use system located within residential buildings, making access quick and convenient. This localized approach not only reduces personal consumption but also promotes a circular economy by encouraging shared use of seldom-needed products. Its unique design allows for seamless borrowing and returning of items, creating a simple yet effective solution for reducing waste. Currently, no other project combines this level of accessibility, automation, and sustainability in a residential context, making Share-it! a truly novel concept in the field.
Does it impact or reflect young people need(s) and how?
Share-it! directly addresses the needs of young people, especially those who may not have the financial resources to purchase expensive tools or equipment. It offers an affordable alternative, enabling students or young renters to borrow essential items without the high upfront cost. For instance, placing the machine in student dormitories provides easy access to tools and equipment that are rarely needed, promoting savings and convenience. This model supports the values of resource sharing and sustainability, which resonate with younger generations who are often more conscious of environmental and economic challenges. By offering a cost-effective, community-driven solution, Share-it! helps young people access what they need without the burden of unnecessary purchases.
