Green circular economy online auctions online auctions movable asset

Online Auctions for the Circular Economy

Recovering and reusing used goods is possible through the mechanism of online auctions

author: Internal Editorial Team
24-01-2025
3 mins to read

Today, sustainability is becoming increasingly important, and the circular economy presents itself as an effective solution to reduce waste and optimize available resources. Online auctions play a key role in this scenario, facilitating the recovery and reuse of movable assets. But how can we contribute to a more sustainable future through online auctions? Let’s find out together.

What is the Circular Economy and Why is it Important?

The circular economy aims to extend the life cycle of products by transforming waste into real resources. This approach contrasts with the traditional "linear" model (produce-consume-dispose). But what are the key benefits?

Waste reduction: fewer goods end up in landfills.
Saving natural resources: materials and products are recovered and reused.
Economic opportunities: assets that would otherwise remain unused gain value.

Online auctions fully embody all these principles, creating an efficient and accessible secondary market.

Online Auctions: Their Role and Value in the Circular Economy

Online auctions allow used goods—such as vehicles, machinery, and furniture—to re-enter the market. Companies and individuals can thus turn unused assets into valuable economic opportunities. This applies to various sectors, from transportation to construction, from earthmoving to logistics. Selling or buying used equipment and machinery at online auctions carries great significance within the green economy. Judicial auctions, in particular, help transform obsolete assets into valuable resources.

Through online auctions, buyers can purchase high-quality used goods at competitive prices, benefiting from significant cost savings. Not surprisingly, the second-hand market has become an increasingly popular trend. A study by the Second Hand Economy Observatory, conducted by BVA Doxa, highlights this growing preference in Italy. Over the past ten years, the number of Italians using the second-hand market has risen from 19 million in 2014 to 26 million in 2023.

The frequency of participation is also increasing:

76% of buyers and 71% of sellers engage in second-hand transactions at least twice a year.
The number of items bought or sold has grown, with 81% of respondents stating they purchased or sold as many or more items than in the previous year.
The total turnover has reached a peak of €26 billion, equivalent to 1.3% of the national GDP.

In this context, online auctions fit perfectly, offering the opportunity to find rare and specialized second-hand goods at advantageous prices, such as specialized equipment, vintage furniture, and industrial machinery.

As highlighted by the report, online auctions for used goods are also a valuable opportunity for sellers. Not only do they help preserve goods from deterioration and put them back into circulation, but they also provide access to a large pool of potential buyers. Given the growing number of users choosing second-hand products for their affordability and the wide variety of available goods, sellers can maximize their sales opportunities.

Moreover, companies that choose to liquidate movable assets through judicial online auctions can significantly reduce the management costs of unused goods, thereby lowering their environmental impact. Selling disused assets at auction allows companies to make a concrete commitment to sustainability and circularity, which also has a positive impact on their corporate image.

Are You Ready to Contribute to the Circular Economy Through Online Auctions?

If you’re a seller, discover how we can assist you on Gobid.it!

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