Why Borrowing Belongs in a Wellbeing Economy

Why Borrowing Belongs in a Wellbeing Economy

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What if our economy was designed around what makes life good, not just what makes money?

That’s the question at the heart of the Wellbeing Economy Festival of Ideas, where communities, changemakers and organisations from across Wales are coming together to rethink what our economy is for, and who it really serves.

At Benthyg Cymru, we believe that a wellbeing economy starts with access, not ownership. Every time someone borrows a drill instead of buying one, or repairs something rather than throwing it away, they’re quietly challenging the extractive systems that drive overconsumption and waste.

Borrowing is a simple act with profound ripple effects. It saves people money, cuts carbon, and reduces clutter, but it also creates connection, belonging and shared purpose. It reminds us that wellbeing isn’t something you buy; it’s something we build together.

By normalising borrowing and repair, we’re helping to unhook from destructive economic patterns and invest instead in community infrastructure that creates long-term, sustainable wellbeing.

Join us at the Festival of Ideas on 12 November at Swansea Arena to explore how borrowing, repair and sharing can shape a fairer, greener Wales.

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Find out more and register at https://wellbeingeconomy.wales/

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