Smartphone sustainability, according to a newly prepared report, apple and SamsungReaching new heights with the leadership of . The report, “Smartphones and the Circular Economy: Creating a Sustainable Future,” aims to reuse materials and improve devices. by recycling and minimizing waste based on efforts to reduce their impact on the environment top five smartphone original equipment manufacturers (OEM) is evaluating.
Apple and Samsung Lead the List
The report’s scorecard includes a robust metric system that evaluates each company’s vision and overall sustainability approach. Apple’s vision seems clearer than its competitors, and its actions support it. However, each of the top companies performs differently in the three main phases of the smartphone circular economy: manufacture, use, and end-of-life.
In terms of production, companies focused on environmentally friendly components and packaging, as well as water-saving mechanisms in their production processes. Samsung, apple and Oppo Brands such as these have encouraged their sellers to comply with environmental norms. However, revenue and profit remain primary goals for these companies.
In terms of usage, companies are balancing the need to protect the environment with the desire to motivate consumers to upgrade to newer, more technologically advanced devices. Oppo, Xiaomi and in vivo Chinese companies such as companies are working to improve battery life and energy efficiency. Apple excels in overall longevity, updates and sustainability innovations, while Samsung excels in repair, energy efficiency and aftermarket networks.
At end-of-life, companies have an important role to play in reclaiming and responsibly recycling or repairing their smartphones when they reach the end of their useful life. The main purpose is to reduce electronic waste (e-waste). The global refurbished market has grown significantly in recent years, but the company’s efforts in reclamation, refurbishment and e-waste reduction are limited. Even the best brands are not active enough to pull devices off the market, and the e-waste crisis continues to grow.
Overall, while Apple and Samsung take the lead in terms of sustainability initiatives, the efforts of all smartphone companies fall short when compared to the volumes of new smartphones shipped each year. To truly make a difference in tackling e-waste and other environmental issues, companies must do more to promote the reuse and recycling of smartphones and prioritize sustainability at all stages of the device lifecycle.