In a world where sustainability is becoming a priority, the market for second-hand gardening materials, tools and equipment is booming. Whether you're a private individual or a professional, opting for second-hand products can save you money while reducing your environmental impact. In Belgium, France and throughout Europe, this trend is perfectly in line with the objectives of the European Green Dealaiming for a circular economy by 2050. Find out about market trends, the benefits and best practice for making the most of this approach.
Why choose second-hand materials, tools and equipment?
Buying second-hand has many advantages, both economic and ecological:
1️⃣ Cost reduction Second-hand tools and materials are often sold for 30 to 70 % less than new products. For example, a second-hand lawnmower or bricks cost a fraction of their original price.
2️⃣ An ecological gesture By extending the lifespan of products, you are helping to reduce waste and limit the use of natural resources.
3️⃣ A wide range available specialised platforms such as Qijco offer everything from DIY tools to building materials and gardening equipment.
The rise of the circular economy
In Belgium
A study by Statbel in 2023 shows that 70 % des Belges prefer to buy second-hand products, particularly in the DIY and gardening sectors. Local initiatives, supported by players such as QijcoThis makes the sport accessible to everyone.
In France
According to the 2023ADEME, 75 % of the French are choosing second-hand products for ecological reasons. This market is being driven by a collective awareness and specialist platforms that are responding to this growing demand.
In Europe: 2050 target
La European Commissionthrough the European Green Dealaims to :
- Drastically reduce the amount of waste produced in the construction and fitting-out sectors.
- Double the reuse of resources through financial and regulatory incentives.
- Promoting specialised platforms such as Qijcowhich simplify the circular economy.
Key figures :
- In Belgium, the reuse of materials could reduce by 20 % CO2 emissions in the construction sector (source: Brussels Environment).
- In France, reusing building materials can save up to 70 % of wasteaccording to ADEME.
The advantages of specialised platforms
Unlike generalist sites such as Le Bon Coin or Facebook Marketplacespecialist platforms such as Qijco offer a unique experience tailored to the specific needs of DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
| Criteria | Qijco | Le Bon Coin | Facebook Marketplace |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialisation | DIY, construction, gardening | All types of products | All types of products |
| Relevance of ads | High, targeted | Medium, diversified | Low, unstructured |
| Rental options | Yes | No | No |
| Transaction security | Ratings, strict moderation | Variable | Limited |
| Intuitive interface | Yes, dedicated | Yes, but a generalist | No, complex navigation |
👉 Why choose Qijco?
- A targeted range of gardening materials, tools and equipment.
- Multi-transactional: the possibility of renting or buying, depending on your needs.
- Enhanced security thanks to strict moderation and evaluations.
Good practice in buying second-hand
To maximise your purchases, follow these steps useful tips :
1️⃣ Inspect before you buy Make sure your products are in good condition and suited to your needs. For example, check paving stones for cracks or gardening tools for worn blades.
2️⃣ Ask the right questions Ask the seller about previous use of the product and any defects.
3️⃣ Choose recognised brands Tools and materials from reliable brands often offer greater durability, even when second-hand.
4️⃣ Maintain your purchases Once you've acquired your tools, store and maintain them properly to prolong their life.
💡 Qijco tip Use the platform's filters to sort ads by status, category or location. Thanks to an integrated geolocation system, the ads closest to you will be displayed firstThis means you can reduce transport costs and delays.
👉 Practical example: Mathieu, a keen DIY enthusiast in Belgium, renovated his terrace using second-hand paving stones found on Qijco. Thanks to the platform's geolocation feature, he was able to contact a seller located less than 10 km away. The result? A saving of 60 % on his project and a reduced carbon footprint.
Not only does this ensure simpler transactions, it also helps to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials or tools.
Measurable environmental impact
The second-hand market is not only an economic solution, it is also a powerful lever for reducing environmental impact:
Belgium : By reusing materials and tools, the building sector could save 20 % of CO2 emissionsaccording to Brussels Environment.
France : The reuse of materials in the construction sector helps to reduce 70 % waste generated.
Europe : With the Green Deal's 2050 targets, the circular economy could become the norm, thanks to players like Qijco.
Conclusion: a sustainable and cost-effective solution
Buying second-hand gardening tools, materials and equipment is an economical and environmentally-friendly alternative. In Belgium, France and Europe, specialist platforms such as Qijco make this practice accessible, reliable and tailored to your projects.
By choosing Qijco, you become part of a global movement towards more responsible consumption. Join our community and become an agent of change for a more sustainable future.
🔗 Discover the ads available on Qijco.be and Qijco.co.ukand join a community committed to a more sustainable future.
References :
- Statbel (Belgium) - Belgians' attitudes to the circular economy
https://statbel.fgov.be/ - European Commission - Objectives of the European Green Deal
https://ec.europa.eu/climate-policies/eu-climate-action_fr - Eurostat - Statistics on waste and re-use in Europe
https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/ - Zero Waste Europe - The impact of reusing materials
https://zerowasteeurope.eu/ - Brussels Environment - Reducing emissions through the circular economy
https://environnement.brussels/
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