Negotiations with Sharing, Volunteerism and Second-Hand Goods Use as a University Event in Türkiye: "Yeniden Kullan" Project

Yeniden Kullan" (YK) (“Reuse”) events have highlighted alternative consumption habits and environmental consciousness since 2017 at the Social Sciences University of Ankara. This biannual second-hand goods exhibition promotes waste reduction, sustainable consumption, and a sharing culture within the university. This study analyzes how YK challenges traditional values, beliefs, norms, and behaviors related to second-hand use. We used focus group and participant observation analyzing perceptions of YK volunteers on sharing and usage of second-hand items. Utilizing relevant theoretical and empirical literature on production and consumption, we found the Value-Belief-Norm (VBN) theory helpful in our analysis. The results indicate that while the changes are not substantial, volunteers are beginning to internalize second-hand use as the norm, influenced by social connections, economic factors, and ecological concerns. The horizontal sharing framework of the initiative facilitates this transformation by challenging vertical, hierarchical charity models prevalent in Türkiye. YK exemplifies how micro and university-based projects may incorporate sustainability and cultural change by serving as a collaborative social space and a helpful ecological intervention. The study contributes to the sociology of consumption and change by focusing on the underexplored dynamics of ecological and second-hand practices in Türkiye, emphasizing their broader implications for sustainable and shared consumption.