Free Tools for a Sustainable Edinburgh: ECCAN & Edinburgh Tool Library’s new partnership
Here at ECCAN, we're passionate about empowering our network to tackle the climate crisis from all angles. We know that building a more sustainable future requires innovative solutions and a shift towards a circular economy – where resources are valued, reused, and repaired, rather than discarded. That's why we're absolutely thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with the fantastic Edinburgh Tool Library (ETL)!
If you haven't heard of them yet, prepare to be inspired. The Edinburgh Tool Library operates on a simple yet brilliant premise: instead of everyone buying and owning tools that often sit unused, why not share them? Just like a regular library, ETL lends out a huge range of tools – from drills and saws to gardening equipment and other gadgets – to its members. This not only saves individuals money and storage space but also significantly reduces the demand for new products, lessening our environmental footprint. Pretty special, right?
ETL isn't just about convenience; it's a vibrant community hub fostering skills, sustainability, and a real "make and mend" attitude. Their website is a treasure trove of information showcasing the incredible projects their members undertake, the local groups they support, and the workshops they run to empower people with practical skills. It’s truly inspiring to see the creativity and resourcefulness they unleash!
Just like ECCAN, the Edinburgh Tool Library also offers the flexibility of both individual and organisational memberships. This means that if you're part of a charity, social enterprise, or even a forward-thinking business within Edinburgh, you can empower your team members, dedicated volunteers, and valued colleagues to actively participate in the shift towards a circular economy. By securing an organisational membership with ETL, you can provide them with access to a vast array of tools at a discounted rate, enabling them to embrace repair, reuse, and sustainable practices in their own lives and within your organisation's initiatives. It's a fantastic way to collectively contribute to a greener Edinburgh!
We know that many of our incredible ECCAN members – both individuals and groups – are already champions of sustainability and are constantly seeking ways to operate more circularly. We also know that some of the most impactful work is done with very little resources, and that's why we've teamed up with ETL to offer a fantastic opportunity: free one-year membership to the Edinburgh Tool Library for a lucky selection of our ECCAN Network!
We're delighted to offer this amazing benefit to:
15 Edinburgh-based groups within the ECCAN network who have an annual turnover of £150,000 or less and operate exclusively within Edinburgh. Imagine the possibilities for your projects and initiatives with access to a wide array of tools!
16 enthusiastic individuals who are Edinburgh residents and don't currently hold an ETL membership as of today, April 24th, 2025. This is your chance to dive into the world of DIY, repair, and sustainable living without the upfront cost of buying tools.
This partnership is a perfect synergy: ECCAN's commitment to a thriving and sustainable Edinburgh aligns beautifully with ETL's mission to empower communities through resource sharing and skill-building. We believe that by providing access to the Edinburgh Tool Library, we can further support our network in their vital work and encourage even more circular practices across the city.
Ready to get your hands on this fantastic opportunity? Applications for free Edinburgh Tool Library memberships go live on Monday 2nd June, and you’ll be able to submit yours through our website -we’ll be adding a link to an online application form in early May. Don't miss out on this chance to join a fantastic community, save resources, and build a greener future, one borrowed tool at a time!