Rather than turning away from sourcing locations that are deemed high-risk, some industry partnerships have decided to get hands-on to improve conditions and connect responsible miners to global demand. This way, mining communities
in ‘high-risk’ countries earn vital income, while industry alliances engage with them to improve practices while keeping a close eye on avoiding funding conflict. The aim is to show the industry that it is possible to source responsibly (as per OECD guidelines) from ‘high risk’ locations.

Example for the product-service model focussed on smartphones. Getting the procurement model right is a key part of this, with an opportunity to set a
great example for circular procurement.

Various sustainability criteria for ICT have been developed – by industry, NGOs and international policymakers. This case study present different options e.g. TCO Certified.

Summary of Dutch context for circular procurement, focussing on ICT products. Informs how government can support the transition through experimenting and mainstreaming.

Closing the Loop uses a circular economy approach to reduce the harms of smartphones at the start and end of their lives.

Smartphones and ICT products are not designed to ensure the valuable materials they contain are kept in circulation for as long as possible. How do we change that?

Circular Computing is a specialist in laptop remanufacturing for supply to corporates and institutions. It solves the typical problems that prevent large buyers from choosing used equipment. By making laptops as good as new, and by educating buyers and sellers, Circular Computing is proving that second-hand tech is now a real alternative to buying first-hand.

This was the first public-sector competitive bidding process for recycled equipment in Finland. A laptop computer was needed for each lower secondary school student, and the City of Forssa sought a more economical and environmentally friendly solution than acquiring new computers.

The State Property Service (DRZ), part of the Dutch Ministry of Finance, conducted a project to find data safe alternatives to destroying ICT equipment. The number of saleable devices proved lower than estimated (only 25%), uncovering key lessons for the reuse of computers and other ICT in the circular economy.