[Gadgets] Heaping used tech gadgets into landfills will not solve toxic issue

[Shyloo]

Heaping used tech gadgets into landfills will not solve toxic issue

 

The uptake of retailers offering trade-in options helps to drive the re-commerce market. This approach also supports a more circular supply chain model, rather than a linear one, thus producing less overall waste.

Disposing your device is not only harmful to the environment, but it’s also a missed opportunity to make a bit of extra money. As the smartphone becomes a vital necessity for everyday life, users are seeking more reasonable purchasing options, such as buying secondhand devices. Consequently, a thriving device re-commerce market has emerged, with players and platforms that support consumers to sell their unused devices at a greater value than buy-back options from retailers.

Keep them in use
The market for secondhand devices is growing at both ends. In my experience, the right platform can significantly enhance user experience and financial rewards for both buyers and sellers in the re-commerce space. In the Middle East, the secondhand device marketplace runs on listing websites or social groups.

NorthLadder, on the other hand, is an online marketplace that connects customers looking to sell pre-owned electronics and luxury assets to a global network of buyers, also with the option of buying back at a future date. This enables the customer to get the highest prices from an auction, while ensuring that it is a hassle-free process.

Let’s not forget it’s not just individuals who possess unused devices. Corporations often collect a bank of pre-used devices, which are essentially depreciating assets. Connecting with an established platform is more beneficial for corporations as it ensures reliable data erasure in line with international standards and removes the hassle of dealing with vendors.

In the Middle East, the growth of the electronic re-commerce market has a role to play in supporting national sustainability objectives. In the UAE, for example, a dedicated Circular Economy Council meets to ensure “circularity” to maximize use of resources, and ultimately, create a more resilient country. The re-commerce of electronics helps us to extend the lifespan of devices, and pass them onto users for a new lease on life, thus reducing the e-waste.