Making the workplace greener is something we’ve done for a while: we’ve used way less paper nowadays, as an example.
Indeed, businesses all over the world have pushed the shift towards more sustainable practices.
But now, it’s not just about producing with green energy or chipping in for environmental causes anymore.
Businesses have tried revamping corporate cultures. They’ve encouraged employees and partners to join sustainability efforts and make changes across departments.
In today’s time, since going digital, businesses have used more consumer electronics like smartphones and laptops.
Well, these gadgets bring their own set of sustainability challenges and chances, from recycling to making them last longer. Let’s also not forget that e-waste is an issue, as well.
Therefore, taking action about it is an opportunity for global entrepreneurs to show off their commitment to better the planet. Furthermore, it can be a ticket to some serious financial benefits down the road.
So what to do about office gadgets?
Since the shift of more sustainability, the secondhand market has become more popular, especially when it comes to consumer electronics.
Refurbished smartphone sales shot up by more than 14% in 2023, beating out new smartphone sales. In fact, the sales hit $13.3 billion in 2023, even after getting a bit of a supply hiccup.
Experts believe that this trend is set to keep happening for a decade.
Personally, I think this is a good trend.
Consumers love to be up to date when it comes to electronic gadgets—encouraged by tech companies’ constant product update.
This has led to a significant surge in e-waste. This has caused major issues to the environment, human health, and animals.
There’s over 53 million metric tons of e-waste globally every year, and only 17% gets recycled.
We know what’ll happen when such waste stays untouched: toxic chemicals seeping into our soil and water.
At the same time, making new smartphones and gadgets requires a ton of resources, which are both valuable and limited.
It’s only after finding out that e-waste can be profitable that the attitude has started to change. The raw materials in e-waste are estimated to be worth about $60 billion.
So, companies should care about recycling and fixing up used smartphones and refurbished laptops . Ignoring this means we’re just making the shortage of raw materials worse. This can lead to higher production costs and an unsustainable product cycle.
The prospect of more used gadgets
With more demand, there’s now more infrastructure supporting the growth of secondhand mobile markets is keeping pace.
The global electronics recycling market hit around $40 billion in 2022. It’s expected to reach $110 billion by 2030.
Turning a used smartphone into something new involves a complex process that needs a well-coordinated network of services.
Recycling, reusing, and upcycling, in common people’s eyes, must have convenience, too.
In Japan, there are thousands of easy drop-off points, service centers for device examinations, and places for repair and refurbishment. More countries have started adapting this effort.
Such infrastructure like ones making the devices or fixing them up can make a difference. But they shouldn’t be the only key player.
In these modern times, it’s only responsible that we focus more on cutting down on e-waste.
Therefore, it’s a good move to get more employees on board.
We can start by doing some training sessions on using electronics responsibly and how to keep them in tip-top shape.
Companies can also increase public talks or workshops. This will make employees and regular staff more aware of the matter and encourage them to do better.
Internal policies may apply shorter or longer tech refresh cycles where everyone gets a “new” upgrade regularly. They can also be more sustainable and let employees bring their own devices—with the right security measures, of course.
Upgrade when needed
New model releases of gadgets, although available in secondhand market, may tempt us to keep upgrading.
New smartphones, tablets, and laptops are always going to be available around us. However, having the shiniest and latest piece of tech isn’t the most sustainable either.
Ideally, we want to keep using the devices as long as possible.
Here’s what to think of when there are new models around:
‘Does it benefit us to get a new one?’
‘Is the device made with sustainable material?’
‘Will it help save energy?’
‘Is it just better to upgrade or fix the current device so we can keep using it?’
Then, if we notice that there’s no significant changes between models, it might not be worth getting the shinier one.
Let’s say that in the new models, they’re similar in the overall design approach, software experience, and hardware. It’s better to hold off buying them until more significant changes are introduced.
But what about home offices?
Remote work is a good way to reduce carbon emissions in different ways. And in many ways, it can help improve employee happiness and team morale. If one has noticed, teleworking can also open a new world of talent for us to consider.
Working from home does cut the need for energy-consuming, expensive office spaces as well as CO2 emissions via commuting.
Now, some companies don’t see a significant benefit from this. On the other hand, some others have found varying levels of success in saving energy.
According to Salesforce, remote work can cut emissions by 29% per employee.
Moreover, Global Workplace Analytics reports that the U.S. economy could save over $700 billion a year. That is, when employees with jobs that are compatible with remote work do it at least half the time.
Will there be more used gadgets in offices?
The rise of secondhand mobile markets is more than just a trend, experts say. It’s a response to the issues of e-waste and decreasing resources.
People are getting more mindful about their choices, and secondhand smartphones are becoming a top pick.
Secondhand smartphones line up with sustainability and responsible consumption. And, businesses are catching on and filling the demand.
This positive feedback loop ensures that the growth of secondhand smartphone markets may continue over the next decade.
It’s happening now: the cutting down on e-waste, preserving valuable resources, and making top-notch tech more accessible.
If these continue, we’re heading towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
Aside from the economic benefits of using used gadgets or going greener in offices, there are also more reputation and opportunities.
More brand reputation (the positive one)
It may sound a little bit self-promoting to announce that one’s business is actively participating in improving climate change.
Some are reluctant to do it because consumers have been made skeptical due to prevalent greenwashing.
However, with transparency and sincere efforts, one’s reputation will reach conscientious companies worldwide.
And well, that may open more opportunities.
Partnerships that focus on sustainability
When businesses become more eco-friendly, this can open doors to potential partners, talent and customers with similar values.
Per a survey, more than two-thirds of the consumers said they’d pay more for sustainable products. About 68% of Gen Z shoppers have made an eco-friendly purchase within the past year.
As we can see, there’s an increase in demand for sustainable products. This is a good reason to implement an eco-friendly business strategy that can create long-term consumer loyalty.
Sources
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