The end of this month marks the beginning of the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference, popularly called COP 28, and with it, a renewed focus on environmental policy and economics.
First launched in 1995, the conference gained new prominence after a 2018 report describing the potential impacts of global warming above two degrees Celsius. Five years later, the 2023 conference has already been overshadowed by a new report that suggests we’re on track for a three degree rise in temperature this century, a potentially catastrophic threshold.
So, why bring this up on a blog that normally talks about how neat subscriptions are?
It’s because Rentoza was founded on the idea that a new approach to access holds the potential to be truly transformative – not just for the way people live, but for the society and planet as a whole.
As we face stiff headwinds in the fight against climate change, the circular economy has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering a path towards a more environmentally friendly and responsible way of consuming. This movement is at the heart of Rentoza, a pioneer in product subscriptions that align with the principles of the circular economy.
The Circular Economy Unravelled
The basic economic model that’s driven humanity for millennia can be summed up in three words: Take, make, dispose. Take raw material from the environment, make something out of it (a phone, maybe), throw the thing you made away when you’re done with it. Not great at the best of times, but with more than seven billion people consuming as much as possible as often as possible, extra not great.
The circular economy recognises this, and says: There’s a better way. It promotes a regenerative system where products are designed to be reused, repaired, and recycled. It's a holistic approach that values the longevity of products, reduces waste, and minimises the environmental impact of consumption – in a perfect circular economy, there’d be virtually no waste at all.
Circularity at Rentoza
We said up top that Rentoza believes that a new approach to access has the power to change the world. That new approach?
Subscriptions.
If you’ve ever wondered why Rentoza is a subscription business, and not a rent-to-own or buy-now-pay-later or even just a straightforward rental business, this is part of the reason. Subscriptions offer a totally new relationship with consumption, with ownership.
Subscriptions allow more people to access more of the tech and appliances that are an increasing necessity in the modern world, yes. But it’s also a model that is uniquely suited to the circular economy – and that’s no accident.
Don’t believe us?
Extending Product Lifecycles
People don’t just throw away too much stuff, they throw it away too soon. At Rentoza, we try not to throw it away at all.
Say you’ve got the iPhone 13. But the iPhone 15’s just come out, and it’s titanium, and awesome, and you need it. Normally, you might give some thought to selling your old phone, but it’ll probably sit in a drawer until you eventually throw it away. Rinse and repeat.
The Rentoza way is different: Subscribe to the new phone, and when you’re done, just send it back. We’ll refurbish it good as new, and find it a new home. Not only does this mean you don’t have to buy an expensive new phone (or deal with weird contracts), it means your old phone doesn’t clutter up your drawer, and continues to be useful.
Embracing Subscriptions
The traditional mindset of ownership is undergoing a transformation, and Rentoza is at the forefront of this shift. We want you to rethink the need for permanent ownership. The pace of technology means no device or appliance is forever.
Whether it's a cutting-edge laptop or a state-of-the-art kitchen appliance, subscriptions give you the freedom to find what works for you best, safe in the understanding that you can change, and your device will still go on.
Reducing E-Waste
In the digital age, technology is at the heart of our daily lives. Unfortunately, it also contributes significantly to electronic waste – in 2019, for instance, an estimated 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste was produced globally, but only 17.4% was collected and recycled. Each South African alone is responsible for 6.5kg of e-waste annually. That might not sound like a lot, until you remember there are 60 million of us.
Rentoza's tech subscriptions address this challenge by providing access to the latest gadgets and devices without the need for constant upgrades. Users can enjoy cutting-edge technology without adding to the electronic waste stream, since our circular flow model means that even old devices aren’t scrapped
Encouraging Repair and Reuse
Repair and reuse are essential elements of the circular economy. Rentoza aligns with this philosophy by maintaining and refurbishing products, ensuring they are in excellent condition for the next user. This approach not only promotes sustainability but also reduces the need for new manufacturing, saving valuable resources.
Adapting to Changing Consumer Needs
One of the hallmarks of the circular economy is adaptability. Rentoza's flexible subscription model allows users to adapt to their changing needs without the financial burden of buying new products. Whether it's upgrading to the latest smartphone or trying out a new kitchen gadget, Rentoza ensures that users can stay in sync with their lifestyle without contributing to excessive consumption.
Rentoza and COP 28
COP 28 will hopefully stand as a pivotal moment in the global effort to combat climate change. It’s a platform where nations come together to discuss and implement strategies for a sustainable future. Rentoza, with its commitment to the circular economy, wants to play a significant role in aligning consumer behaviour with the goals set forth in this international forum.
As the world focuses on the urgency of climate action, Rentoza's circular economy practices present a tangible solution for individuals looking to reduce their environmental footprint. By choosing product subscriptions over traditional ownership, consumers contribute to a collective effort to combat overconsumption and foster a more sustainable lifestyle.
Towards the Circular Future
Rentoza's commitment to the circular economy extends beyond the present moment. It's a forward-looking approach that envisions a future where consumption is mindful, products are cherished, and the impact on the planet is minimised. We face challenges, sure, but that just means we all need to do what we can to help.
Through product subscriptions that prioritise reuse, repair, and responsible consumption, Rentoza is reshaping the way we interact with the products we love. It’s not just good business, it’s good, period.
Because commitment might actually be unsustainable. Just Rentoza it.
The planet will thank you.
