Books, DVDs and clothing in particular are among the most popular second-hand products. According to a recent survey by the Austrian Retail Association, half of Austrians now buy second-hand goods, spending an average of €195 per year.

University Professor Dr Christoph Teller emphasises in the LT1 interview that the trade in second-hand goods is not new. However, online platforms such as Willhaben, Vinted or eBay have made it more transparent and easier to measure. The market volume in Austria currently amounts to around two billion euros.

Second-hand contributes to the conservation of resources, as fewer new goods are produced and fewer raw materials and energy are consumed. In the fashion sector in particular, buying second-hand clothing extends its lifespan and reduces waste. At the same time, consumers benefit from lower prices. However, it is precisely these favourable prices that often lead to impulse purchases in which products remain unused. Shipping also poses challenges, as transport between private individuals increases the carbon footprint.

In addition to online platforms, large fashion chains such as H&M now also rely on recycling and resale programmes. As a result, experts expect the market share of second-hand goods to increase by 50 per cent by 2029.

This is an exciting trend that is gaining in importance from both an economic and ecological perspective.