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Published on: December 11, 2016
ICT reuse in socio-economic enterprises
F O Ongondo1, I D Williams, J Dietrich
1Centre for Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, Lanchester Building, University of Southampton, University Rd., Highfield, Southampton, Hampshire SO17 1BJ, UK.
Waste Management (New York, N.Y.)
|September 19, 2013
Summary
Socio-economic enterprises in the UK are crucial for reusing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment, facing barriers like marketing and legislation. Enhancing their operations through "reuse parks" can boost resource efficiency and the circular economy.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Waste Management
- Circular Economy
Background:
- Socio-economic enterprises (charities, non-profits) in Europe engage in product repair, refurbishment, and reuse.
- This study focuses on the operations of these enterprises specifically in the reuse of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize and analyze the operations of socio-economic enterprises involved in ICT equipment reuse.
- To quantify ICT products handled, analyze barriers and opportunities, and discuss by-products.
- To provide recommendations for improving reuse activities and draw Europe-wide conclusions from UK data.
Main Methods:
- Survey-based analysis of socio-economic enterprises in the UK.
- Quantification of ICT products handled by reuse organizations.
- Analysis of operational barriers, opportunities, and by-products.
Main Results:
- In the UK, an estimated 143,750 ICT appliances were reused in 2010.
- Key barriers include difficulties in marketing reused products and complex legislative requirements.
- Commonly reused ICT items are computers and related equipment.
Conclusions:
- Reuse organizations significantly contribute to resource efficiency and the circular economy.
- Clustering operations into "reuse parks" can enhance visibility, product sales, and consumer confidence.
- Industrial networking for by-product exchange should be explored to further support reuse activities.
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