Underutilization of second-hand equipment

Nature

Considerable and increasing quantities of second-hand equipment become available every year in advanced industrial countries. Although it may no longer be economic to employ such equipment in the conditions (such as a particular industrial sector in a developed country) under which it was previously used, it might still be used to economic advantage under different conditions (such as in a developing country). Nevertheless, such resources tend to be ignored in favour of the purchase of new equipment.

Incidence

A 2022 report by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) estimated that up to 60% of donated or resold second-hand industrial equipment in sub-Saharan Africa remains idle or underutilized due to lack of compatible infrastructure, spare parts, or technical expertise. Similar patterns have been observed in Southeast Asia and Latin America, where significant volumes of imported used machinery are stored unused in warehouses or industrial parks.
In 2019, a survey conducted in Lagos, Nigeria, found that over 40% of imported second-hand medical equipment in public hospitals was not in use, primarily due to missing components and insufficient training for local technicians.

Claim

The underutilization of second-hand equipment is a critical issue that exacerbates waste and environmental degradation. Millions of functional items sit idle, while new products flood the market, driving unnecessary consumption and resource depletion. This neglect not only squanders valuable resources but also denies access to affordable options for those in need. We must prioritize the efficient use of existing equipment, fostering a culture of sustainability and responsibility to combat this pressing problem for our planet and society.

Counter-claim

The notion that underutilization of second-hand equipment is a significant problem is vastly overstated. In reality, the market thrives on the efficient redistribution of resources, allowing consumers to access affordable options. Many individuals and businesses prioritize new technology, driving innovation and progress. The occasional underutilization of second-hand items is a minor issue compared to the broader economic benefits of recycling and reusing equipment. Let’s focus on more pressing challenges rather than exaggerating this trivial concern.