By Mark Gamtcheff, Founder of Page & Turner
Recycling has become an important part of everyone’s lives as we try to reduce waste and conserve natural resources. One beneficial aspect of the circular economy that is often overlooked is the sharing or collection and sale of secondhand books. This practice is not only good for the environment but also for society.
The benefits of this form of recycling and reuse is one aspect of bookselling that inspired me to start Page & Turner, with a focus on pre-loved books. And it is also why we help locals with our Adelaide Book Rescue service which takes donations of used books in Adelaide.
Here are ten ways in which the collection and sale of secondhand books contribute to a sustainable and just economy:
- Reduces waste: By giving books a second life, we reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and the amount of paper that requires recycling. This helps to conserve natural resources and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
- Saves energy: Producing new books requires significant amounts of energy, including the production of paper and ink. By reusing books, we reduce the energy required to produce new ones.
- Conserves water: The production of paper requires large amounts of water. By reusing books, we conserve water resources and reduce the environmental impact of paper production.
- Reduces deforestation: Paper production often involves the cutting down of trees. By reusing books, we reduce the demand for new paper and therefore reduce the need for deforestation.
- Promotes literacy: Secondhand books are usually sold at affordable prices, making them accessible to people who may not be able to afford new books. This helps to promote literacy and a love of reading.
- Supports local economies: The collection and sale of secondhand books provide economic opportunities for individuals and small businesses. This helps to support local economies and create jobs.
- Encourages reuse: By promoting the reuse of books, we encourage people to think about how they can reuse other items in their lives, leading to a more sustainable and circular economy.
- Preserves cultural heritage: Many secondhand books are rare or out of print, making them important cultural artefacts. By preserving and selling these books, we help to preserve our cultural heritage.
- Fosters community: The collection and sale of secondhand books often involves local bookstores, libraries, and community organisations. This helps to foster a sense of community and promote social connections.
- Encourages creativity: By providing access to a wide range of books, secondhand bookstores and collections can inspire creativity and innovation. This can lead to the development of new ideas and the creation of new works of art and literature.
In conclusion, the collection and sale of secondhand books is an important part of the circular economy that benefits both the environment and society. By reducing waste, conserving resources, promoting literacy, supporting local economies, and fostering community, secondhand books contribute to a more sustainable and just economy.
You can do your part by donating your used books, by visitinh your local secondhand bookstore or by shopping at our bookshop on Level 2 of Myer Centre Adelaide in Rundle Mall.
