The circular economy is changing our smartphones and computers
according to a study published on its website Statistics Last October, more than 60 million tons of e-waste is expected to be generated next year. Statistically, more than 80% of this waste will not be properly recycled, a heavy price our planet can no longer afford. Of course, computer products – be it a keyboard, screen or mouse – and smartphones play a defining role in this phenomenon. It is enough to remember that at least 5.3 billion smartphones will be thrown into the trash in 2022. However, thanks to the guidelines of the circular economy, 2023 could also be an ecological turning point in their economy. process production, the aim of which is to make them more durable than before.
as explained Stanton Thomas, Senior Vice President, Sustainability Solutions For consulting company o9 Solutions: “ In large markets such as Europe, consumers are looking for more durable and long-lasting products “. Probably more sustainable products that will lead to a decrease in sales volume in the coming years.” low replacement rates “. Something manufacturers need to consider in their business models as these types of economic trade-offs progress Stanton Thomasshould note transition to a sustainable and circular economy “.
Virtuous axes multiply…
A move from yesterday – …but not a week –. Manufacturers are already trying to make their technological products last longer and therefore put aside the old planned obsolescence. All the reasons for this ideological turn have been found: the pressure exerted by various associations, the evolution of consumer behavior and the recent legislation on the right to repair in Europe. This explains the placement in particular apple A self-service repair system in stores and a partnership established between Samsung and Google with iFixit to supply them with spare parts.
Matthew Cockerillfounder and CEO of CKBK and the innovation consultant even claims that “ these forces will begin to shape the architecture of our technology products and how they are sold, serviced, and recycled, while also changing our behavior toward some of our already established technology products. “. But apart from the durability and repair of products, it is the development of their reconstruction that allows us to make a giant leap.
… for already tangible results
And if anyone knows what they’re talking about in this area, that’s fine. Thibaud Hugo de LarauzeCEO and co-founder Aftermarket. is asked by tnwhe claims: Selling products to repairers generally extends the life of the technology, as these products can then be professionally repaired and resold. “. For him, recycling is not just not yet developed enough to save all parts of the device. Another important piece of information that shows the crucial role that refurbishing has developed and already plays in technology is the renewed interest of consumers themselves in refurbished devices.
according to a study by Happydemics On behalf of the French repairman Yes yes, between 2020 and 2021, 3.1 million refurbished smartphones were sold in France, up 20% year-on-year. According to forecasts, the global refurbished electronics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.1% between 2022 and 2031. Only after being motivated by progress at any cost for decades.
Additional tools
While the trend for updated tech products is growing, some consumers are hesitant due to expectations of peak performance and a sense of wanting something simple.” new and shiny as said Peter BraggDirector of Sustainable Development and Government Affairs ball for the region EMEA. Repair work for him ” missing link » circular economy practices as it allows you to keep the old device as original as possible and rebuild it to function as a new product.
It’s an improvement over the refurbished one” with a focus on performance and extensive testing that allows consumers to actually get their hands on a new product. It’s not just about extending the life of an existing device “. In this way, it can also reduce their environmental impact while meeting consumer demand for new, high-quality products. In the end, it’s the users who hold the cards to continue reshaping the extremely energy-intensive industry… or let it interfere with their excesses. Everything in technology and in life has a price.
