- Project: Tauschhaus 2.0 in Jena
- Result: Saving of 156 tons of CO2
- Principle: Swapping instead of throwing away (circular economy)
- Goal: Waste prevention and resource conservation
Jena, 18.02.2026. In a time when sustainability and resource conservation are increasingly becoming the focus, Jena is setting a clear example. The “Tauschhaus 2.0” project impressively proves that local action can have global impacts. Instead of throwing away disused but still functional items, they are given a second life here – with a remarkable environmental balance.
156 Tons of CO2: A Record to Be Proud Of
The raw figures speak a clear language: Through the operation of the Tauschhaus, 156 tons of CO2 have already been saved in Jena. But what does this figure mean in concrete terms? It represents the amount of greenhouse gases that would have been generated during the new production of the swapped goods. Every plate, every book, and every piece of clothing that is not bought new but passed on conserves resources such as water, energy, and raw materials.
This saving corresponds roughly to the annual CO2 footprint of well over ten average citizens in Germany or thousands of kilometers driven by car. For a local project, this is a massive success and underlines the effectiveness of the circular economy right on the doorstep.
The Principle: Give, Take, Share
The concept behind Tauschhaus 2.0 is as simple as it is ingenious: Citizens can drop off well-preserved items that they no longer need themselves. Others who are looking for exactly these things can take them free of charge. It is a modern form of giving and taking that not only protects the wallet but also reduces bulky waste.
Typical “circulating goods” are:
- Books and media
- Household goods and dishes
- Toys
- Smaller decorative items
Quality is always important: The Tauschhaus is not a rubbish dump, but a place of appreciation. Only what is clean, intact, and functional finds a new owner here.
A Building Block for a Climate-Neutral Jena
Jena has set ambitious climate goals, and initiatives like the Tauschhaus are essential building blocks on this path. Alongside the energy and transport transition, consumption plays a decisive role in the city’s climate balance. Tauschhaus 2.0 not only promotes environmental awareness but also strengthens social cohesion in the Saalestadt. It is a meeting point that shows that forgoing new purchases does not have to mean a loss of quality of life – on the contrary.
Conclusion: Imitation Encouraged
The success of the Tauschhaus with its impressive CO2 savings sends an important signal: The throwaway society is slowly transforming into a repair and swap society. For the population of Jena, the Tauschhaus remains a primary point of contact for creating space in one’s own four walls without having to have a bad conscience towards the environment.
Sources:
Original
Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.