With climate change on the rise, it becomes increasingly important to learn more ways we can reduce our carbon footprint—the amount of carbon emissions typically associated with an activity, an individual, or a group. Did you know that buying and using second-hand items from online classified platforms like OLX helps reduce carbon footprint?
The idea is quite simple: When you buy second-hand items, you lessen your carbon footprint since you extend the life of that product as opposed to buying a new item.
Because of the growing buy and sell community, OLX is able to share the idea that anyone can do their part in saving the environment. Every time you purchase a pre-owned item, you lessen the demand for manufacturing new items—thereby lessening what would have been thrown at landfills.
“New products require burning fossil fuels and energy. They also come in special packages and are shipped from elsewhere. Every time a new product is produced, new materials are needed, fossil fuels are burnt and energy is used up,” explains Jem Baldisimo, an Environmental Scientist for the Marine Science Institute at the University of the Philippines.
Here’s a quick roundup of the environmental costs of popular items.
Cars
Thinking of getting a new car? Keep in mind that emissions from manufacturing just one brand new car can power one house for a year. We would like to recommend for you to purchase a second-hand car with a friendly reminder to check that it’s also well-maintained.
Motorcycles
According to data from the ASEAN Automotive Federation released last year, the Philippines continues to shape up as a robust market for motorcycles. With more motorcycles around, it becomes easier to find a second-hand and well-maintained unit.
Keep in mind that the amount of electricity needed to create a brand new motorcycle is equivalent to driving from Cabuyao, Laguna and back! Now, that’s a lot of energy you can save on top of thrilling rides you’ll experience with your pre-loved motorcycle.
Gadgets
Owning a laptop and mobile phone is essential these days. But there’s a way we can enjoy the benefits of these gadgets at a better price and help the environment too.
Itching to get that new laptop? Think twice. To produce at least 1 kg of a new laptop, about 12kg of fuel is needed. Since the average weight of most laptops is around 2.3kg, you can imagine how much energy is needed to produce a single brand new laptop.
Mobile phones have a similar story. A brand new high-end smartphone for example, result to an estimated whopping contribution of around 60 kg of carbon emissions. That’s comparable to driving from Manila to Dagupan, Pangasinan!
Whether you’re a seller or buyer of second hand items, this is a good exercise in helping through waste management and reducing overall carbon footprint.
With thousands of quality second-hand listings on the platform, you can definitely start doing your part in helping out the environment and fight against climate change. Start your journey towards a cleaner, and greener planet. Visit or download the OLX app to jumpstart your winning environment-friendly transactions!