Our vision


Rental, solution for a circular economy

The EU is generating some 3 billion tonnes of waste annually, of which 90 million tonnes are hazardous waste. This is equivalent to 6 tonnes of waste per European citizen. The amount of waste produced is increasing and the OECD estimates show that the EU could be generating 45% more waste in 2020 compared to 1990 if no action will be taken.

This forces us to move from a traditional take-make-waste economy towards a system that is in balance with our resources and the environment. Central in this concept is the societal shift from ownership of goods to access to goods.

Moving towards a European circular economy

In December 2015 the European Commission adopted an ambitious Circular Economy Package to stimulate Europe's transition towards a circular economy which will boost global competitiveness, foster sustainable economic growth and generate new jobs. ERA welcomes this political initiative as it will benefit both the environment and the economy. At the same time it provides the rental industry with the opportunity to present the European institutions the environmental benefits of the rental concept and the industry’s contribution to a circular economy.

3 major benefits of equipment rental

1 Use efficiency

Rented goods are used more frequently compared to individually owned materials, and save a considerable amount of resources.

2 Influence on design

Rental companies can better liaise with manufacturers to encourage equipment design with improved sustainability performance.

3 High operational standards

Specialised equipment rental companies are well positioned to maintain high standards of quality, maintenance and operating guidelines, leading to better performance in e.g. energy efficiency, health & safety, noise reduction, etc.