Local business surpasses Freecycle as free resource for low-impact, local living

BOULDER, COLO. -- There are more than 5,000 Freecycler’s here in Boulder with a desire to keep things out of landfills and in resourceful hands. They do this as a counter balance to the American consumer lifestyle which creates almost unimaginable amounts of waste and pollution. A local Boulder company, LocalShare has designed and launched a free lifestyle website that allows Freecyclers to do what they do best- but with more ease, safety, and community connection.

 

Current consumption practices in the United States play a large role in our ranking as the second largest contributor to global CO2 emissions. We closely follow China whose population quadruples the U.S according to the United Nations. Post World War II, our country turned to a culture of consumerism in order to boost the economy. The problem is the production cycle results in CO2 emission and other environmental damage. In addition many of these products are made to last six months, or trends tempt consumers to discard items for newer versions. This results in a lot of waste. The only way to effectively address the issues related to consumption is to do less of it.

 

Inspired in part by Freecycle’s mission, in the spring of 2008, John Nicoll embarked on a journey to provide structure and support for the Boulder community to reduce its consumption and improve its social fabric. With an innovative design and emphasis on functionality, LocalShare creates real world, face to face time between Boulderites.   

 

Members can build profiles, post listings with photos to share, gift, trade, or sell items and services, all with safety precautions that give the user control of what information is shared. Unlike much older sites (e.g. Craigslist and Freecycle mailing lists), Localshare uses web 2.0 technology to create connectivity and safety in the process of gifting, sharing, bartering, renting and selling items, products and services in the community.

 

Beyond listings members have access to a directory of local businesses, farms, and events with sustainable practices. Supporting these local businesses decreases the environmental damage caused in the production cycle and supports local economy. Up to 80% of every dollar spent at a local business in Boulder stays in Boulder according to the Boulder County Independent Business Alliance. In addition, LocalShare approved businesses are evaluated for sustainable practices in different categories and feature a Values Profile with user-friendly values badges so it is clear what your money is supporting.Members also have exclusive access to weekly deals that feature discounts with local businesses. Simultaneously, these deals support local non-profits by donating 10% of the profits.

 

LocalShare is more than just a place to give and take things, it seeks to empower community and local commerce in order to embody the change we want to see across the nation and world. The goal is to create a community that depends on itself to be successful, highlighting that what we need, together we already have. We have the power to build a resourceful, strong local community and economy. It all lies in the decisions we make each day. Whatever your commitment is, LocalShare has the capacity to support you and grow with you as you inevitably become more invested in this dynamic community.
Contact: Dakota-Rae Westveer, intern
LocalShare
320-310-7991
westveer@localshare.org

Love Strong. Live Smart.www.localshare.org