Reusing Pre-owned Smartphones: Options Other Than Buying New That Extend Device Lifespans
In the ever-evolving world of technology, France is taking significant strides towards a more sustainable future. A recent study by ADEME reveals that in 2022, approximately 37% of French people chose to buy used or refurbished smartphones, a decision that not only saves money but also reduces environmental impact.
The AGEC (anti-waste) law, implemented in January 2021, includes a measure to evaluate the repairability score of phones. Rated from 1 to 10, this score aims to promote durable electronic equipment. A higher repairability score indicates easier and cheaper repairs for a phone, with criteria including availability of documentation, ease of disassembly, access to tools and spare parts, and specific criteria for each device type.
One option for those seeking to extend the lifespan of their devices is phone rental services. Commown, a cooperative, offers such services to individuals and professionals. Another choice is to sell your phone on second-hand or refurbishment platforms like Le Bon Coin or Back Market, or consider leasing as an option for temporary phone needs.
If your phone is no longer working or you're getting a new one, consider donating it to organizations like Emmaüs France for repair and redistribution. Encouraging phone recycling is crucial for reducing electronic waste and preserving the environment. Collection points for phone recycling are available in large supermarkets and recycling centers.
Amazon Trade-In is one of the many organizations and programs in France that offer the possibility to exchange or resell used smartphones, supporting repair, refurbishment, and resale as used goods. Other recycling schemes and specialized local companies also buy, repair, and resell old phones as an alternative to disposal.
Choosing a used or refurbished phone is an environmentally friendly option, as it extends the lifespan of a phone and has less environmental impact compared to a new phone. In 2021, 3 million refurbished smartphones were adopted in France. Adopting responsible practices like reuse, recycling, buying refurbished phones, or phones designed to last, can reduce the environmental impact of our technological choices.
However, only 5% of phones are currently recycled due to the complexity of their alloys. Yet, around 20 materials can be recycled from a phone. If uncertain about the repairability of your device, give it to Ateliers du Bocage for repair or recycling.
Every action counts in reducing electronic waste and preserving our environment. Let's rethink our relationship with our old phones for a more sustainable future. Renting a smartphone can be an interesting option for those who need recent smartphones temporarily, such as for professional purposes. By making sustainable choices, we can all contribute to a greener tomorrow.
