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The business division of mobile network operator O2 (VMO2) has today revealed that their O2 Recycle for Business service, which helps companies of all sizes to trade in their old technology (usually in return for cash, credits or a charitable donation), has helped to save 45,000 devices from waste (earning nearly £330k) since it was relaunched in October 2023.
The traded tech (e.g. Smartphones, routers etc.) is typically data wiped, and then repaired, refurbished and resold, or recycled – with zero parts going to landfill, helping prevent electronic waste (e-waste). But the business service is admittedly still dwarfed by the O2 Recycle service for consumers, which since 2009 has recycled more than 4 million devices and paid out over £350m to consumers (last year alone it saved 100,000 devices).
However, VMO2’s own research has suggested that there could be approximately 11.8 million unused business devices gathering dust that could still be reused or recycled, although it remains difficult to get an accurate figure for such things.
Dana Haidan, Chief Sustainability Officer at VMO2, said:
“We know businesses want simple solutions to help them become more sustainable. That’s why Virgin Media O2 is leading the way in helping companies to reduce their waste, recycle their unwanted tech, and reuse their unwanted devices.
Businesses can also play a vital role in supporting digital inclusion by accessing tech donation programmes, where their unused devices can be given a second life and used by someone in need, helping them to get online, access essential websites and build digital skills.”