How Does 3R Waste Management Work in the Refurbished Mobile industry?

Mobile phones these days are one of the most important devices that we need in our lives. They have evolved from handheld devices used for sending SMS or placing calls because nowadays, they can function like a smaller version of your laptop or tablet even. But because we are all clamoring for faster and better smartphones, mobile phone companies are developing bigger devices that are packed with more components and features than ever before.

How can refurbished mobile phones help with e-wastes? (photo credit: uswitch.com)

Unfortunately, this leads to more cell phones being disposed of or are forgotten inside drawers in favor of premium models. That said, major mobile phone companies as well as third-party retailers are now seeing the value of selling refurbished mobile to help cut back on the amount of electronic waste or e-waste that we are facing right now.

Understanding the 3R Mobile Phone Waste Management

Electronic waste is a growing problem across the globe as gadgets are frequently disposed of constantly. This includes computers, laptops, tablets, and even mobile phones. The problem with throwing away these gadgets is that they still contain personal details that may be extracted by knowledgeable individuals, plus, the components can become hazardous when they are exposed to the elements such as batteries which can leak dangerous waste materials to the environment.

That said, there is a growing concerted effort in reducing electronic waste through mobile phone waste management which is composed of the three Rs which are refurbished, repurpose, and lastly, redesign. Let’s find out how these three work.

Refurbish

The first R on how to recycle e-waste is refurbishing the device. This is where you will find old phones being refurbished to work like they are new or at least in good working condition. The life of a refurbished mobile usually starts here. Here’s how it works:

• Old, broken, or returned mobile devices are first tested to determine if they are still in working condition.

• If the unit is still working, it can be sold as-is (which we know as “used”) or it can be refurbished to like-new condition. The latter means that it will be in pristine condition which can then be sold at a more affordable price.

• The refurbished mobile will be graded according to its condition with Grade A being pristine in condition.

Refurbishing facilities in the United States are now focusing their efforts on producing pure and high-quality commodities that can be resold in the market following strict compliance to the set standards of recycling. As a matter of fact, there is a growing demand for certifications of electronic waste processing facilities.

According to the Director of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) at the ERI Direct, David Hischler, reusing gadgets that have already been disposed are still limited to making the device work and be sold with the same function. A good example here are refurbished computers or even refurbished mobile phones. Hischler commented that if the item that was being refurbished was taken apart and the working components harvested to be used to create new and useful products, there will be more use of these e-wastes rather than limiting their use.

Repurpose

Repurposing old phones can help reduce e-wastes. (photo credit: trendhunter.com)

The second R that we should talk about is repurposing e-wastes. The reuse of e waste through repurposing the components is another way to reduce the number of electronic wastes that are filling the landfills across the globe. In the repurposing stage, the disposed of gadget will be taken apart to harvest components that are still in good working condition and sold for other use.

According to Kimberly Henning, the VP of Programs & Partnerships from Smart Metals Recycling, a good example of repurposing harvested electronic parts on old gadgets is the OLED screens. Instead of shredding them, Smart Metals repurposed them as terminals for e-commerce for taxis across the globe. Another of their projects is re-using Grade A li-on batteries to power homes that are off the grid in Puerto Rico. Although the components of mobile devices and other gadgets can be recycled properly, repurposing them helps extend their life cycle before they end up in the recycling stations.

Redesign

Redesign is the third R in mobile phone waste management where manufacturers of smartphones are encouraged to participate in the recycling process down the line. When these mobile phone companies consider redesigning their devices with end-of-life usability at the forefront it will have a more positive impact on the environment too. Henning further stated that their company works to be a source of information for recycling that they can share with those who are involved in making these gadgets.

Additionally, Hennign remarked that if there is better communication between manufacturer and recycler, there will be a better chance of coming up with a more sustainable design for mobile devices that can help reduce the amount of e-waste across the globe.

What Can You Do?

Reusing old phones can extend their life cycle. (photo credit: digitaltrends.com)

Now that you know how to recycle e waste, the question that you might be asking right now is what can you do to help the growing electronic wastes in your area. Fortunately, there are a few tips that you can make use of if you want to contribute to keeping your smartphone from ending up in the dumpster.

• A gift to a Relative. In case you have an old device laying around your home, or that you are thinking of buying a new device, instead of throwing away your old phone, or putting it in your drawer to be forgotten forever, why don’t you just give it away as a gift to a family member? You can give it to your kids too as a means of reaching them when they are out and about. This way, you will be able to keep track of them without spending anything.

• Repurpose to Webcam. An old mobile phone that is no longer receiving updates may no longer serve your needs. However, this doesn’t mean that you should give up on it altogether because it can be given a new life as a webcam. Download a webcam application to your old phone and place it in an area that you want to monitor, such as in the nursery or any entryway. You will need a charger and a socket nearby to keep the phone charging as you keep an eye on your baby and your household too.

• Resell It. What else can you do with your current device? Why not make money out of it? You can sell it as is or you can have it repaired before selling at a cheap price. Not only will this help keep your phone still in the market but you also get paid for it too. This isn’t a bad deal at all.

• Alternative Device. You can always keep your old mobile phone on your second phone. This way, you will have a spare device in case you misplace, lose, or even leave it in the office.

Why a Refurbished Mobile Device is for You

Mobile phones nowadays are getting better in terms of features and designs so it is not surprising why many are eager to get them as soon as possible. But for those who are on a budget but are in need of a replacement device, a refurbished smartphone is a good alternative to look into.

Refurbished Phones, like it was mentioned above, are mobile devices that were broken or returned and then fixed to be sold at a cheap price. This is one of the reasons why many are considering getting a refurbished unit instead of a brand-new model because of the savings that they can get from it. Get more info here about How these phone looks like and their condition. Other reasons include:

• Pristine and Unlocked Condition. Aside from getting huge savings from refurbished smartphones, another plus to getting this type of phone is the fact that you can get one in pristine and even in unlocked condition too. Why unlocked? This provides you with more room to consider what carrier to use and a plan that will suit your budget.

• Warranty. Another reason why it isn’t such a bad idea to get a refurbished device in place of a new one is the warranty. Unlike before where refurbished models have a limited warranty, you can get one up to 12 months. This is a good deal given that you can bring your refurbished unit back to the seller for free repairs if the problem is at the end of the retailer. Also, if the unit is beyond repair, they can give a replacement phone instead.

• Cooling Period. Retailers of refurbished smartphones also provide a cooling period for their customers where they can test out the product and return for a refund.

We still have a long way to go when it comes to reducing electronic wastes considerably, but if countries apply the 3R waste management policies, it is possible that the number of e-waste being dumped in landfills can be reduced. Refurbishing, repurposing, and redesigning are keys to dealing with electronic wastes safely and responsibly.