Smartphones: Behind the Screen, the Carbon Footprint

Our smartphones are an integral part of our daily lives. But behind their bright screens and sleek design lies a less visible reality: their manufacturing, usage, and end-of-life have a significant impact on the environment.

Extraction of rare metals, high energy consumption, electronic waste generation at every stage of their lifecycle, mobile phones leave a footprint. Fortunately, there are simple and effective actions everyone can take to reduce this impact.

On the occasion of European Sustainable Development Week, discover how each of us can contribute to more responsible digital practices.

The Carbon Footprint of Our Smartphones

Every year, over a billion mobile phones are sold worldwide, requiring the extraction of numerous rare materials and generating a considerable amount of electronic waste. In fact, only about 15% of these phones are properly recycled, despite containing valuable materials such as gold, copper, or lithium. Adopting more sustainable habits is crucial to preserving resources.

For example, choosing refurbished phones can reduce the need for raw materials by up to 90% compared to buying a new device. Similarly, repairing your device instead of replacing it extends its lifespan and limits the demand for new resources.

During European Sustainable Development Week, these alternatives stand out as concrete ways to reduce our ecological footprint.

At Orange, we are committed to a more responsible digital world with the Rɘ Program, which is built on four pillars: Recycling, Refurbishing, Repairing, and Take-back. These are practical solutions to prolong the life of our devices and conserve resources.

Rɘ as Recycling

Broken or obsolete phones lying around can be dropped off at our Orange stores to give them a second life. Once collected, they are handed over to our local partner for manual dismantling and recycling, allowing up to 90% of their materials to be recovered.

Rɘ as Refurbishing

A still-functional phone deserves a second chance. Refurbishing extends the device’s lifespan by fixing its faults. Devices are tested, cleaned, reset, and necessary parts are replaced. These refurbished smartphones are offered at up to 30% less than new ones and come with a 24-month warranty. A solution that benefits both the planet and your budget.

Rɘ as Repairing

Did your phone take a bad fall? It’s no longer inevitable to replace it. If your phone is still under warranty, visit one of our Orange shops for repair. If not, go to one of our partners. Repairing your mobile helps fight resource waste by optimizing and extending the life of existing devices. Plus, it’s much more economical than buying a new phone keep this in mind the next time your device suffers from clumsiness.

Rɘ as Reprise

Planning to buy a new phone? Opt for taking back your old model. Depending on its condition and model, it still has value, and we can buy it back for up to €700. This money can be used to finance your new purchase, reducing its cost, and giving your old device a second life. You can estimate your device’s value online or in-store.

Simple Actions for a More Sustainable Digital Life

Let’s take advantage of European Sustainable Development Week to reflect on the impact of digital devices. This includes choosing a refurbished model over a new one, optimizing your smartphone’s settings when changing devices, and adopting simple habits throughout its use.

Start by removing unnecessary apps that constantly drain the processor and reduce battery life. Adjust screen brightness, activate power-saving mode, and close background apps to reduce charging frequency. Protect your phone with a case and screen protector to avoid repairs or replacements. Finally, regularly update your operating system to extend your phone’s lifespan by improving performance and security.

From manufacturing to end-of-life, and throughout use, every action counts in reducing your mobile’s environmental impact.

Together, let’s adopt habits for a more responsible digital world.