How Sustainable is Refurbished IT Hardware

Refurbished IT is one of the most sustainable options when it comes to upgrading your infrastructure. Repairing and reusing equipment not only reduces the amount of e-waste that goes to landfill but also reduces the need to extract more precious materials from the planet.

What is Refurbished Hardware?

Refurbished hardware is existing equipment that has been restored to a ‘like new’ condition both cosmetically and in terms of performance. It has been proven that refurbished hardware can perform to the same level as new, while costing up to 70% less.

What are the Environmental Benefits of Refurbished IT Hardware?

Refurbished IT hardware directly reduces the amount of e-waste produced. Not only does choosing refurbished hardware mean that you extend the lifespan of that specific piece of equipment and stop it going directly to landfill, but it also reduces the demand for the manufacturing of new hardware. This in turn reduces the need to mine for precious metals, which, firstly, generates a large amount of emissions, and secondly, continues to use up a number of materials that we do not have in infinite supply. Conserving rare and precious metals wherever possible is a key step in improving global sustainability.

The Importance of Precious Metals

At the heart of the IT sector, you will find precious metals. They are absolutely integral to electronic devices, and as such, they are in high demand.

Metals such as gold are vital to IT hardware. In 2020 it was estimated that 7% of the world’s gold was in e-waste. This is concerning for two reasons. Firstly, the number is likely now even higher. Secondly, gold, alongside other precious metals, is not an infinite resource. If we carry on the way we are, there will come a time when gold, as well as other precious metals, will run out. The amount of gold in each individual piece of equipment may be small, but it adds up quickly when taking into account the scale of the IT industry.

Metals such as gold are so important to electronic devices for a range of different reasons, but a key reason is their durability, which also lends itself to being refurbished and reused. It is simply inefficient from a resource standpoint to send all these precious metals to landfill when they still offer such utility.

Economic Sustainability

Sustainability is not just about saving the environment, and neither are the benefits of refurbished IT. Because refurbished IT is more affordable than new, it further supports sustainability best practice from an economic standpoint without having to sacrifice performance. Lower costs promote resource efficiency and further encourage the market of refurbished goods.

Refurbished IT is Not the Risk You Think it is

Although concern around the reliability and quality of refurbished equipment has decreased over the years, people still approach it with trepidation. This concern, now more so than ever, is misplaced. Refurbished hardware specialists, such as Techbuyer, ensure equipment goes through a rigorous testing process before it can be remarketed. These tests aim to find weak points, flaws or imperfections within hardware, which can then be addressed through the refurbishment process. What’s more, refurb specialists will often offer a warranty on any device purchased just to provide that extra piece of mind.

Refurbished IT and the Circular Economy

In short, a circular economy is one in which we are able to reduce the amount of waste and pollution generated through reuse, refurbishment, and repair. You can read more about it here. Thanks to all of the points we have mentioned above about refurbished IT, it means that by choosing refurbished IT, you are perfectly aligned with the circular economy. You divert waste from landfill, conserve resources, reuse equipment and extend its lifespan.

Choosing Refurbished IT With Techbuyer

For 20 years, Techbuyer has been at the forefront of refurbished IT hardware. Our team are experts in refurbishment, ensuring you are provided a quality product that can perform just as well as new for a fraction of the price. You can learn more about the capabilities of refurbished hardware here.