The Dutch do not like to share, even if it is good for the environment
A sharing economy was considered as a solution for a climate-conscious society. Still, when it comes down to it, the Dutch are very limited in their willingness to share. Recent research by De Volksbank shows that sharing a drilling machine is still considered reasonable, but no longer.
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The willingness to share things or living spaces appears to be very low in 2022. The same study by De Volksbank showed that 17% never want to share things with others. In total, one-tenth want to share things with strangers.
The Sustainable Living advisor at de Volksbank strives for a sustainable living environment for everyone. Students from Eindhoven University of Technology have set up a project called ‘Sustainable house of the future’. In this house, everyone can share facilities and living spaces, including an energy-efficient system that ensures that you are comfortable in winter and summer.
Research has shown that the top 5 products and services with high willingness to share are:
- Garden or DIY tools
- Subscription such as Netflix or Youtube Premium
- Barbecue
- Trailer
- Subscription to products such as newspapers or meal boxes
Biggest objection to the sharing economy
Change always comes with resistance. It is good to know exactly where the resistance comes from. That has also been investigated. In total, 15% had a bad experience when handing out items. It is mainly young people who fear that products that are shared will break. Asking for the return of loaned products also weighs heavily why the sharing economy is not popular.
In the Netherlands there are more bicycles than people. Will this change now that there are more and more initiatives that offer (electric) shared bicycles? Research by the National Travelers Survey has shown that 86% never use a shared means of transport. One company in electric bicycles is Bondi. According to the two founders of this concept, we will only share means of transport in the future. At the moment, the willingness does not seem great for this.
Buy your own bicycle
Cycling brings a number of benefits. For example, cycling is sustainable, it improves your resistance, it makes you smarter, you sleep better and it is a good way to prevent obesity. Buying a bicycle yourself? Read our favorite (electric) city bikes here.
Gazelle Esprit C3 2021
The Gazelle Esprit C3 2021 is the favorite if you mainly travel short distances. With hand brakes, 3 gears and an integrated headlight, this Gazelle city bike is very comfortable.
Cortina E-U1 N7 2023
The Cortina E-U1 N7 is the ideal electric bicycle to take to work or school. This trendy Cortina city bike has a powerful front-wheel motor, with a range of 40-80 kilometers. It is possible to upgrade the battery.
