ylläpitotalous

Ylläpitotalous, often translated as "maintenance economy" or "care economy," refers to the economic activities focused on maintaining, repairing, and prolonging the lifespan of existing goods and infrastructure. It contrasts with a purely growth-oriented economy that prioritizes the production of new items and rapid consumption. Ylläpitotalous encompasses a wide range of services and industries, including repair shops, renovation businesses, public works departments responsible for infrastructure upkeep, and even activities related to resource management and waste reduction.

The core principle behind ylläpitotalous is the recognition of the value inherent in existing assets. Instead of discarding items when they show signs of wear or become outdated, the focus is on their preservation and continued use. This approach can lead to significant environmental benefits by reducing the demand for raw materials, energy consumption, and waste generation associated with manufacturing new products. Economically, it can foster local employment and create stable, long-term job opportunities in skilled trades and maintenance professions.

Proponents argue that a greater emphasis on ylläpitotalous is crucial for achieving sustainability and building more resilient communities. It encourages a shift in consumer behavior away from disposable culture and towards valuing durability and repairability. While not necessarily replacing traditional economic models entirely, integrating ylläpitotalous principles can contribute to a more circular economy, where resources are kept in use for as long as possible, extracting maximum value from them before recovery and regeneration.