Vodafone has detailed a series of initiatives that will make it easier for European customers to repair, reuse and recycle their mobile devices to save money and reduce their environmental impact.
The carrier says it already offers trade-in and repair programs in several markets, but wants to take a consistent approach across the continent.
A new digital platform will simplify the process of accepting a trade-in, while customers will also be offered insurance, fast repairs and the ability to responsibly dispose of devices they no longer need.
Additionally, the company will also offer a range of high-quality refurbished devices in its retail stores through a new partnership with Recommerce.
Vodafone's circular economy
"Vodafone has a leading role to play in developing and driving a circular economy for mobile devices that significantly reduces its impact on the environment," said Alex Froment-Curtil, Vodafone Group COO. "We are pioneering a comprehensive digital offering that makes it easy for our customers to extend the life of their current smartphone or buy and own a refurbished device."
Cost and environmental concerns are driving the market for refurbished phones, with consumers eager to recycle their devices and get cash on a new one or hoping to get new technology at a lower price. Meanwhile, recent supply problems and the rise in the average selling price (ASP) of high-end phones are fueling demand for cheaper, older technology.
“Keeping a phone for an extra year can reduce your lifetime CO2e impact by up to 29%. Buying a refurbished smartphone saves around 50kg of CO2e, 20% or less than the equivalent new smartphone, and eliminates the need to extract 164kg of raw materials,” explains Augustin Becquet, CEO of Recommerce. “Potentially more than 50.000 tons of CO2e could be avoided for every million smartphones that Vodafone receives through the exchange, which are then refurbished and resold.
The "circular economy" plan will build on other Vodafone environmental initiatives. The company commits to using renewable energy in its grid, reusing or responsibly disposing of surplus or decommissioned equipment, and considering the environmental and social credentials of a potential supplier when purchasing supply.
"In recent years, Vodafone has made significant progress in eliminating our carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency across our operations, renewing our purchases to support sustainability and promoting carbon activation for our customers," added Joakim Reiter. , who leads Vodafone's “planet” business in his role as head of external and corporate affairs.
"Next Frontier of Our Planet's strategy now focuses on building a more circular economy for consumers and industry, and through its own actions and in collaboration with partners developing innovative programs capable of addressing the growing challenge of e-waste. ".