Trokaki

Founded in November 2012 in the Carnide neighbourhood of Lisbon, Trokaki is a social exchange shop that offers an alternative to conventional consumption. Participants bring items they no longer need — clothes, books, household goods and more — and receive credits called 'troks' in return, which they can use to obtain other items or services they need. The initiative also allows the exchange of time and skills, functioning as a form of community time bank alongside its goods exchange system. Since its founding, Trokaki has grown to serve around 300 local citizens, becoming an important reference point for solidarity and sustainable consumption in the Carnide and Telheiras area. The project operates entirely without money, relying instead on a barter and credit system that strengthens social ties and reduces waste by giving unwanted objects a second life. Trokaki works in partnership with other local entities and organisations, and has been involved in cultural and community activities benefiting hundreds of residents over the years. The project is run with the support of volunteers, who help manage the shop, organise exchanges and welcome the community. Trokaki exemplifies grassroots social innovation in Lisbon, showing how a simple exchange model can create meaningful community resilience, encourage reuse over disposal, and provide practical support to residents through a system built on trust, reciprocity and mutual aid rather than currency.