As Australia (and the world) continues to confront the escalating impacts of climate change, unsustainable consumption, and growing waste production: new models of economic participation have emerged to challenge traditional ownership. One such model is collaborative consumption, also known as the sharing economy – a system that enables access over ownership through peer-to-peer networks. Platforms like Knocknock are at the forefront of this transition, offering individuals and communities the tools to participate in a circular economy by renting out and borrowing everyday items.

In alignment with Green Living Week, this article explores the environmental potential of peer-to-peer rental systems and how individuals can meaningfully engage in reducing household waste, conserving resources, and supporting sustainable living practices. The problem of overconsumption and underutilisation is evident in contemporary consumer behaviour, characterised by rapid acquisition and short-term usage of goods. Research indicates that the average power drill, for instance, is used for a mere 13 minutes over its lifetime (Botsman & Rogers, 2010). Simultaneously, the Australian National Waste Report (2023) reveals that over 78 million tonnes of waste are generated annually, much of which includes discarded household items that were underutilised or disposed of prematurely. This cycle of overconsumption contributes to increased carbon emissions, resource depletion, and landfill overflow, pressing environmental issues that necessitate both systemic and behavioural change.

The role of peer-to-peer Rental in Advancing Sustainability with platforms such as Knocknock provide an infrastructure that encourages the reuse of existing goods, maximising their lifespan while reducing demand for newly manufactured products. This decentralised model fosters community participation in the circular economy, wherein goods are kept in use for as long as possible, waste is minimised, and the environmental cost of production is offset by extending the utility of each item. Such systems also promote localized consumption, reducing the environmental footprint associated with transport and logistics while simultaneously building stronger, more resilient communities through shared trust and resource exchange.

A behavioural shift, from ownership to access is successful when normalising the rental of items traditionally associated with ownership, such as home appliances, outdoor gear, party supplies, and tools. Platforms like Knocknock facilitate a cultural shift. Users are empowered to access items on demand, reducing the need to purchase, store, and eventually discard rarely used products. This behavioural change not only offers economic benefits to individuals (through cost savings and income generation) but also aligns with broader sustainable development goals related to responsible consumption and production (United Nations SDG 12).

How can individuals participate during green living week? Participation in sustainability efforts need not be complex or inaccessible. During Green Living Week, individuals can contribute meaningfully through actions such as:

  • Listing underutilised items on Knocknock, thereby extending their lifespan and reducing the environmental impact of idle goods.

  • Borrowing items instead of purchasing new, especially for short-term or single-use needs.

  • Educating others within their community about the environmental and social benefits of the sharing economy.

  • Engaging in circular economy practices, such as maintaining items in good condition for reuse and reducing reliance on fast-consumption products.

Shared Responsibility Through Shared Resources – the vision posed by the question “What if everything was shared?” invites a reimagining of how we engage with consumption. Through participation in peer-to-peer rental platforms, individuals can play an active role in reducing waste, lowering carbon footprints, and supporting a more equitable and environmentally conscious society. “Green Living Week” presents an ideal opportunity to align personal habits with sustainable practices. In doing so, users of Knocknock and similar platforms contribute not only to their local economies but to a collective environmental ethic grounded in access, equity, and long-term planetary health.

References

  • Botsman, R., & Rogers, R. (2010). What’s Mine is Yours: The Rise of Collaborative Consumption. Harper Business.

  • Australian Government. (2023). National Waste Report 2023. Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

  • Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2020). Circular Economy in Cities.

  • United Nations. (2015). Transforming our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.