Uppsala universitets återbruk is a group within the Staff Portal that interested staff members can join. The group has seen an increase in activity during the on-going dismantling of the Svedberg Lab, but more people need to discover this opportunity to pass on or search for items.
“We are currently facing huge environmental challenges. In Sweden, we need to reduce our annual carbon emissions from nine tonnes to one tonne per person if we are to succeed in limiting the global temperature increase to below 1.5 degrees Celsius. Major changes are needed to reach this goal and we need to do more than just targeting business trips. Increasing the reuse of items is an important issue,” says Anna Sandström, environmental co-ordinator at Uppsala University’s Buildings Division and moderator for Uppsala University’s Reuse Scheme.
The reuse scheme was started to reduce consumption through the reuse of various items within the University. The University previously had a reuse scheme for excess furniture in conjunction with the University Administration’s move from S:t Olofsgatan to Segerstedhuset.
“However, this type of project isn’t currently prioritised, which is why we are promoting this online group as an easy way to facilitate the reuse of items.”
Mixed ranged
At the time of writing, one member is looking for a small conference table, while another wants to give away a large desk. Examples of previous “adverts” include a surgical microscope, a metal cabinet, collapsible tables, pumps, bookshelves, binders, a safe, and a dishwasher. All things great and small are looking for new owners through the reuse scheme.
“At present, it can be difficult to find new owners for these items, as not everyone is aware of the group. This is why we want more people to join the group and start using it.”