New podcast examines consumer behaviour, e-waste and practical approaches to reuse
Why do people often buy a new electronic device when repairing their existing one or purchasing second-hand could be a better option?Why do people often buy a new electronic device when repairing their existing one or purchasing second-hand could be a better option?
This question is explored in the eighth episode of the Gangmakers podcast, featuring Hanne Vanmarsenille and Annechien from the E6 project.
Understanding consumer choices
During the episode, presenters Eulaly Vanroelen and Dieter Struyf from the Expertise Centre for Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Digital Innovation speak with researcher Hanne Vanmarsenille about e-waste and consumer behaviour.
Hanne’s research examines what influences people’s decisions when an electronic device breaks. The discussion considers why consumers may choose to replace a product, even when repair, refurbishment or second-hand alternatives are available.
Understanding these behaviours is important to the work of the E6 project, which aims to extend the lifespan of electrical and electronic equipment by making repair, reuse and refurbishment easier and more attractive.
Turning research into practical action in Leuven
The episode also explores how research findings can be applied in practice through the work of Maakbaar Leuven, part of the E6 pilot ecosystem in Leuven.
Dieter speaks with Annechien from Maakbaar Leuven about the organisation’s work to support repair and reuse across the Leuven region. She explains how insights relating to reliability, convenience and hassle-free services helped inform the development of a practical rental model for students.
The example demonstrates how research into consumer expectations can support the creation of circular services that respond to people’s everyday needs.
Supporting a culture of repair
The podcast also highlighted the Student Repair Café held at Thomas More’s Campus De Nayer in Sint-Katelijne-Waver on 29 April. Researchers, students and lecturers worked together to repair broken devices brought in by members of the community.
Activities such as the Repair Café give people an accessible alternative to discarding broken products while also helping to develop practical repair skills and raise awareness of the environmental impact of e-waste.
Listen to the eighth episode of the *Gangmakers* podcast to learn more about consumer behaviour, repair and the transition towards a more circular economy: https://open.spotify.com/episode/69xQ2ucuc9v3qyThtQZMTv?si=mbgKqOpRTU2d-hKz3Wd4mQ