The advantages of the paper book are no longer in doubt. Every year, millions of copies are printed and sold like hot cakes in bookstores and via specialised e-commerce platforms. However, due to the many controversies surrounding the purchase and use of new books, more and more French people are turning to second-hand books. Why is this a clever choice? That’s what we’ll find out in this article.
The production process of a new book is not totally environmentally friendly.
Reading a book is a real pleasure, but producing it is not without danger for the environment. The raw material for books is paper. The paper comes directly from the trees. According to The World Counts, 239 million tonnes of paper were produced in 2020 alone. Of course, not all of this paper production is destined for the book industry. However, the book industry uses about a quarter of the world’s production. When you consider that it takes between 1.5 and 3 tonnes of wood to produce one tonne of new paper, it is obvious that millions of trees are felled every year just for papermaking.
In addition, the process of making paper used for books is very energy intensive. In fact, the paper industry spends the equivalent of 4% of all energy consumption worldwide, placing it in fifth place of the most energy-intensive sectors.
In addition, paper production requires huge amounts of water. It takes an average of 10 litres of water to produce a single standard letterhead. In addition, air and water pollution from organochlorine compounds, inks, cleaning solutions and transport also occur. To better protect the planet and reduce the carbon footprint, it is therefore best to turn to second-hand books.
Use an application, a practical solution for buying and selling used books
As you will have understood, not systematically turning to new works is a healthy gesture for the environment. Now you need to know how to buy second-hand books easily to enjoy your favourite books. One of the most practical options is to use an online used book purchase application. This allows you to order the book of your choice from the comfort of your own home. This form of purchase is increasingly popular with people who are sensitive to their consumption and want to adopt a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Its advantages are numerous.
To have access to a wide range of second-hand books
The use of an application dedicated to the sale of second-hand books gives you access to thousands of references of different genres (essays, detective novels, recipes…) that deal with a variety of themes. These online platforms put owners and buyers in touch with each other. As the number of buyers is growing, the already impressive range is growing day by day. So, whether you are an accomplished reader or an occasional buyer, there is a good chance that you will find the next book that will enrich your collection. Moreover, the sorting by category allows you to find what you are looking for very easily.
Get your favourite books for less
One of the greatest advantages of second-hand books is the cost of their acquisition, which is always lower than that of a new book. It is not uncommon to obtain them at half price or even less. If you’re a keen reader, the savings can be substantial, giving you the opportunity to buy more books.
On the other hand, if you are a student, you will probably have to buy some of the books recommended by your programme. Buying new versions of these books can be a bad investment if you only have to use them for one semester. If this is the case, it’s best to buy them on the second-hand market.
Easier shipping
If you order a book on an online sales platform, you can take advantage of a shipping service. The principle is quite simple: before validating your order, you indicate the relay point that suits you best, for example, the one located near your place of residence. When your parcel arrives, an email will be sent to you so that you can pick it up free of charge.
Leveraging the second-hand book : practical benefits
By relying on second-hand books, you benefit from several practical advantages.
Diving into the history of the book beyond its content
Whether new or used, a book provides the same information to the reader. But what about its own story ? If there is one area in which a new book cannot compete with a second-hand book, it is history. The first one, unused, has nothing to tell. The second, on the other hand, has a certain charm that testifies to past experiences. From the first glance and with time, you will discover details (the cover a little bland, the folds in the corners in the shape of dog ears, a dedication from the author, notes…) that give it a unique symbolic aspect. Thus, a second-hand book gives you the opportunity to share the experience of its previous owners.
Giving new life to a book still in good condition
Did you know that in France alone, more than 142 million books are destroyed each year despite the fact that they are still in good condition? So, by buying a second-hand book, you may be able to save it from this tragic end. You are giving it a kind of second life that will allow it to age and who knows, to end up in the hands of another reader.
When you bet on second-hand books, you are contributing to the preservation of the environment. It also means making substantial savings in the long term. You can order the books of your choice online, on platforms that bring buyers and sellers together. Similarly, you can use these channels to sell books that you no longer use. You can also read: a little lesson in botany with Carrière Frères.
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