Is Ownership Obsolete?
Why Sharing Work Equipment is The Future of Sustainable Work
In today’s fast-paced world, the way we approach work & travel experience is shifting dramatically. The rise of digital nomads, remote work, and freelancing has led to the need for highly flexible and mobile work setups. However, the traditional approach of purchasing and owning expensive equipment can create not only a financial burden but also environmental impact…
At OXIGEN, our mission is simple: to make it easy for anyone to work from anywhere, without the need to own or haul around heavy & costly equipment. We’re inspired by the principles of shared & circular economy, where access takes precedence over ownership and sustainable practices are at the core of our operations. By offering short-term rentals for high-quality equipment—like monitors, desks, chairs, and even musical instruments—we are not only reducing waste but also empowering the modern workforce to perform their best, no matter where they are.
A global challenge: the environmental cost of electronic waste
One of the biggest global challenges today is electronic waste. According to the European Commission’s report on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), e-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, with millions of tons of discarded electronics entering landfills each year. According to the latest data from the Global E-waste Monitor 2024, a record 62 million tonnes of e-waste was generated worldwide in 2022, it's an 82% growth from 2010. These electronics often contain hazardous materials and toxic substances that can harm the environment. In fact, only 22.3% of the e-waste generated in 2022 was documented as being properly collected and recycled.
The vast amounts of electronic devices being discarded are a significant problem, but also an opportunity to rethink how we consume. At OXIGEN, we recognize the importance of giving electronics a second life through reuse—especially for items that are often used for a short period, such as the high-performance tech many digital nomads need.
Reuse: the key to sustainability in a digital world
The European Commission’s eReuse initiative encourages the reuse of electronics as a way to reduce waste and extend the lifecycle of devices. This process is not only better for the environment but also more cost-effective for individuals and businesses alike. By repurposing and sharing equipment, we can significantly reduce the demand for new electronics and the associated resource consumption!
At OXIGEN, we adopt a similar mindset. Rather than encouraging individuals to purchase new items, we offer a platform where people can access the equipment they need, when they need it. Whether you need a monitor for a week or a desk for a month, you can rent high-quality, well-maintained equipment without the need for long-term ownership.
Our vision: access over ownership
We firmly believe that access beats ownership. Our platform supports the idea that having access to the tools you need at the moment—without the burden of owning and maintaining them — is the future of work. By renting gear as needed, you only pay for what you use, and you get to enjoy a lighter, more sustainable lifestyle.
This approach aligns with the principles of the circular economy, which focuses on reducing waste, reusing resources, and recycling materials. By giving users the flexibility to rent high-quality equipment rather than purchase it, we’re creating a more sustainable future for both remote workers and the planet.
How it works in OXIGEN: simple, affordable, and flexible
Choose Your Equipment: Browse our catalog of high-quality work stations, monitors, keyboards and other tech gear.
Rent on Your Terms: Select the duration for your rental—whether you need the equipment for a few days, weeks, or months, you can rent it as needed.
Delivered Right to Your Door: We’ll handle the delivery of the equipment to your location in Lisbon, and you can get to work immediately.
Sustainability First: Once you’re done, return the equipment, and it’s ready for someone else to use. No waste. No excess.
Why It Matters: a new way of thinking
The shift from ownership to access isn’t just about convenience—it’s also about creating a more responsible way to consume. Rather than continually buying and discarding devices that are used only intermittently, renting allows us to maximally utilize the resources we already have. It’s a step toward a sustainable future where we don’t just think about the value of a product in terms of ownership, but in terms of its use, efficiency, and longevity.
By embracing sharing economy practices and incorporating the principles of reuse and circular economy, we are supporting both the modern, mobile workforce and a healthier planet. Together, we can reduce the environmental footprint of unnecessary waste while empowering individuals to work from anywhere without compromising on quality.
Ready to work smarter, not harder? Rent your workspace today, and join the movement toward a more sustainable, flexible, and enjoyable way of working.
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Published February 22, 2025
Max
