This is comparable to the entire cement industry. If nothing changes, this figure is expected to rise to 14% by 2040.
But what if we could change that? What if businesses could reduce emissions by simply extending the lifespan of their devices?
That’s exactly what the RePlanIT project, a collaboration between AMS Institute, TU Delft, and other partners, has been exploring. Their research demonstrates that rethinking how we manage ICT hardware can deliver huge environmental benefits while also inspiring employees to become proud ambassadors of sustainable practices. To read the full research report, click the link provided at the end of this article.
Why focus on ICT hardware?
ICT devices are an integral part of our lives and workspaces. But their hidden cost lies in the production phase: about 60-80% of a laptop’s carbon footprint comes from manufacturing alone. For servers, this number can reach up to 75%. But despite this, many organizations replace devices far earlier than necessary–contributing to growing e-waste and avoidable emissions.
The ReplanIT project shines a light on these overlooked challenges and provides actionable solutions to drive real change.
“A new laptop with 15% recycled material? That's just the casing. The real value is on the inside, and we need to keep these valuable materials in use. Refurbishment, keeping business ICT in use as business ICT is the best circular strategy.”
Menno van Dijk
Project Manager Circularity in Urban Regions
Changing perceptions
The research highlights that extending the lifespan of ICT devices is far more impactful than recycling them. By using hardware for just a few additional years, businesses can lower emissions by up to 80%.
Sounds easy enough, right? Well, changing habits isn’t always easy. Workplace service managers have noted that employees often see refurbished devices as a ‘dissatisfier’, meaning they view them as ‘less than’ new ones.
That’s why RePlanIT advocates for simple yet effective interventions–like attaching stickers to laptops with messages such as “This laptop saves 1000kg of CO₂ annually by being reused instead of replaced.” This small act can transform the perception of used devices, turning them into symbols of sustainability rather than outdated hardware.
What can businesses do?
The findings from the RePlanIT provide a roadmap for organizations looking to embed circularity into their ICT operations:
- Adopt a circular approach: Focus on repair, refurbishment, and reuse rather than frequent replacements.
- Engage employees: Educate staff about the environmental impact of their devices to foster alignment with sustainability goals.
- Celebrate sustainability visually: Use stickers or messages on refurbished devices to highlight their environmental impact
These strategies not only reduce emissions and costs but also contribute to a stronger culture of sustainability within organizations.
“For example, you see that the municipality of Amsterdam has changed its policy to reflect the ambition to use their laptops for six years before replacing them, instead of the standard three to four years.”
Menno van Dijk
Project Manager Circularity in Urban Regions
Moving forward
The RePlanIT project demonstrates the potential of a circular approach to ICT hardware. By changing perceptions, engaging employees, and incorporating circularity into procurement decisions, businesses can set an example for the global transition to a circular economy.
Read the full report
We invite you to explore the full report for more in-depth insights and detailed findings. Access the RePlanIT End Report on Open Research Amsterdam here: https://openresearch.amsterdam/nl/page/116390/replanit
