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Tauschtheke - The exchange platform for Zurich

Avatar: Roman Paysen-Petersen Roman Paysen-Petersen

What should be created?
The inhabitants of Zurich have rich possessions. Cellars, attics, shelves and chambers are filled with treasures just waiting to be used. Instead of constantly buying every object of desire, it makes sense to share what already exists. In order for swapping to be as much fun as buying, the threshold must be low. Buying less new money reduces the secondary footprint and reduces CO2 emissions. All this through more togetherness. In exchange with Leihbar Bern, the Association of Zurich Community Centres, the City of Zurich and Swiss Post, ideas were generated, plans were forged and concepts were created. And this is how it works: An annual membership guarantees you access to the complete range. This is precisely what is built up from donations. Reserve your desired item online and come to pick it up. At the handover, there is - if necessary - a short introduction and quality control. After all, the objects should remain in the cycle for a long time. The same procedure applies to the return. Come to the counter, go through the check and you're ready to get rid of your rental object. As other working examples in Switzerland show, there is a lot to do behind the scenes. Objects have to be cared for and partly prepared or repaired. Repair cafés of the surrounding GZs are a good option here. In cooperation with the network of Zurich Community Centres, appeals for donations, repair days and other events can be held to spread the idea of sharing. The income from the annual memberships can be used to finance a part-time position in addition to maintenance and care. This part-time position coordinates shift schedules for the optimal staffing of the partial counter, plans and organizes repairs and is the contact person. The work behind the counter is voluntary. In this way, we as a society are moving away from the status symbol of "possessions" towards a communal togetherness. The partial counter in the net-zero pilot district can serve as a pioneer and perhaps there will soon be the opportunity in every neighbourhood to share what is already there.
example
Are you an individual or part of a group?
I'm an individual
Name
novel
Are you implementing the idea alone or are you still looking for comrades-in-arms?
I/we are still looking for comrades-in-arms
Describe the place(s)
Retail store with storage space and counter. Easily accessible and visible.
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