refurbed’s Pioneer Work Continues: A Calculation Model for the Lifecycle Assessment of Electronics*
by Sarah Weyers, on Apr 22, 2024In close partnership with the prestigious Fraunhofer Institute, we've developed a ground-breaking calculation model that provides detailed lifecycle assessment data for a multitude of electronic devices for the first time ever. This pioneer work marks a milestone in the refurbishment electronics industry and paves the way for a more sustainable future - bringing us a big step closer to our goal of making consumption more sustainable.
We've made great strides since 2023, and now we're proud to present our calculation model!
Why are these lifecycle assessment data important?
In an era where environmental consciousness and sustainability are becoming increasingly important, it's crucial that consumers have access to transparent information about the environmental footprint of products. With the calculation model developed by Fraunhofer, we can provide just that: tangible, reliable data about e-waste, water consumption, and CO₂ production - detailed at the product level.
How does the calculation model work?
The calculation model was developed by the Fraunhofer Institute in accordance with ISO standards 14040/44 and then externally audited and verified by GutCert, which we are indeed very proud of. It enables a transparent and verified calculation of the environmental footprint for nearly 10,000 electronic products. From smartphones to laptops to tablets - our calculation model provides scientifically backed lifecycle assessment data for a multitude of devices.
What does this mean for our customers?
As Ireland’s leading online marketplace for refurbished products, we're committed to giving our customers the best possible experience. With our new calculation model, our customers can not only purchase high-quality and sustainable products, but also understand the environmental impact of the product itself. We want to support consumers in making conscious decisions and thus making a positive contribution to the environment.
The importance of ecological transparency
We firmly believe that ecological transparency is the prerequisite for a sustainable future. By providing our customers with clear, verified information about the environmental footprint of electronic products, we want to contribute to the creation of a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Our goal is to pave the way for ecological transparency and jointly shape a more sustainable future.
*- "Lifecycle assessment" is a term that describes how we evaluate the environmental impact of something. It means that we take a close look at how something is manufactured, used, and disposed of to understand how it affects the environment. You could also call it a kind of environmental balance sheet that shows how "environmentally friendly" or burdensome something is.
You can read the entire report here: https://pub.refurbed.com/Sustainabilitypage/refurbed_EIR_ireland_v2_1504%20%281%29.pdf