The power of cooperation

The document titled "The Power of Cooperation – Cooperatives Europe Key Figures 2015" was published by Cooperatives Europe, an organization dedicated to promoting the role of cooperatives in Europe. This report was the result of an extensive 18-month research project involving contributions from 40 national and sectoral experts across 34 European countries. The goal of the research was to compile and present key statistics on the impact of cooperatives in Europe, emphasizing their significance in various sectors, including sustainable housing.

The report highlights the substantial contribution of cooperatives to the European economy. It states that cooperatives provide more than 4.7 million jobs across the continent, illustrating their role as significant employers in multiple sectors. Additionally, cooperatives generate a total annual turnover of approximately 1,005 billion Euros, showcasing their economic weight and sustainability in the marketplace.

While the report focuses broadly on various impacts of cooperatives, its implications for sustainable housing are particularly noteworthy. Cooperatives often engage in housing initiatives, providing affordable and sustainable living solutions for communities. The collective nature of cooperatives allows for shared responsibility and investment in housing projects, which can lead to innovative solutions for sustainable living.

The report is publicly accessible through the provided URL, enabling interested parties, including policymakers and community leaders, to delve deeper into the statistics and findings presented. This transparency supports efforts to advocate for cooperative models in housing and other sectors, reinforcing their role in sustainable development across Europe.

In summary, the document underscores the pivotal role of cooperatives in Europe, particularly in terms of employment and economic contribution. The insights provided are particularly relevant for discussions on sustainable housing, as they highlight the potential for cooperative models to address housing challenges while promoting sustainability and community engagement.