In 2022, the world generated 62 million metric tons of e-waste, yet only 22.3% was properly recycled (Global E-Waste Monitor, 2024). The cycle of rapid upgrades and disposal continues to strain ecosystems, with harmful materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium polluting the environment. Businesses and consumers frequently replace devices not out of necessity, but due to industry-driven upgrade cycles.
A shift towards circular technology consumption is offering a way forward. By prioritising reuse, refurbishment, and extended device lifespans, circular models reduce the demand for new production while keeping electronics in use for longer. This approach not only lowers e-waste but also aligns with sustainability goals for businesses and individuals alike.
In this article, we explore how tech subscriptions lead to the reduction of e-waste, promoting a more environmentally responsible approach to technology consumption.
The World Economic Forum has published that e-waste is now the fastest-growing waste stream globally, projected to reach 82 million metric tons by 2030.
Source: www.weforum.org
Beyond material loss, discarded electronics release toxins into the air, soil, and water. Heavy metals seep into groundwater, affecting agriculture and drinking supplies. Burning e-waste releases carcinogenic chemicals, putting both workers and surrounding communities at risk. Without intervention, these impacts will continue to escalate.
For businesses, the environmental impact of discarded devices is just one concern. Managing outdated IT assets comes with compliance risks, secure disposal requirements, and significant costs. Many companies struggle with secure data erasure, proper recycling, and regulatory compliance—resulting in unnecessary expenditure and liability.
By shifting away from traditional device ownership towards circular technology models, organisations can reduce waste, optimise IT spending, and meet sustainability commitments.
Consumer tech subscriptions offer a fresh perspective on how we interact with technology, breaking the cycle of continuous ownership and disposal. The model promotes the principles of a circular economy, where products are used, refurbished, and used again.
Instead of discarding devices after a short period, Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) platforms refurbish them to a high standard and make them available to new users. This significantly extends the lifespan of tech products, reducing the frequency of disposal.
Circular technology models challenge the outdated buy-use-dispose cycle by prioritising access over ownership. When businesses and individuals lease devices rather than purchasing them outright, they’re less likely to replace them impulsively with each new release. This approach reduces overall consumption, directly lowering the volume of discarded electronics.
By keeping devices in use longer through refurbishment and reuse, circular models decrease demand for new production, which in turn reduces mining, manufacturing emissions, and e-waste accumulation. Fewer discarded devices mean less environmental contamination and reduced strain on finite natural resources.
Refurbishment is a cornerstone of the tech subscription model’s sustainability. When a device reaches the end of a subscription period, it undergoes a thorough refurbishment process. This involves inspecting, repairing, and upgrading components to ensure that the device is in excellent working condition. Refurbished devices not only find new users but also contribute to a more responsible use of resources.
Individual consumer choices play a vital role in the e-waste reduction equation. By opting for tech subscriptions, consumers send a clear message to manufacturers and policymakers about their preference for sustainable consumption. As more people embrace the subscription model, there’s a growing incentive for manufacturers to design products with durability and repairability in mind.
The corporate world is also recognising the environmental impact of tech consumption. Businesses are opting for circular tech services to equip their offices and employees with the latest devices. This approach not only streamlines their operations but also aligns with their sustainability goals. By extending the useful life of devices and minimising e-waste, companies can actively contribute to a greener future.
Cinch believes in empowering the world with access to tech without waste. This also means following through with three core impact pathways.
Financial Inclusion
By removing the cost barrier, Cinch offers more people access to tech.
Avoided Emissions
Cinch’s circular model reduces emissions by maximising device utility and lifespan.
Reduction of E-waste to Landfills
By keeping devices in circulation, Cinch keeps e-waste out of landfills.
Circular technology is part of a larger shift toward sustainable consumption, ensuring that electronic devices are used efficiently and disposed of responsibly. Our model ensures that devices stay in use longer, minimising environmental impact and maximising value for businesses and consumers.
Companies like Cinch are proving that circularity is both scalable and impactful. Through DaaS and structured refurbishment programs, organisations can cut costs, reduce emissions, and eliminate unnecessary waste. Consumers, too, have the power to drive change by choosing solutions that extend device lifespans and reduce environmental impact.
Adopting a circular mindset is no longer an option, it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a business looking to optimise IT spending or a consumer seeking sustainable tech access, your choices shape the future of technology consumption.
Ready to explore the future of sustainable technology? Get in touch with our team at Cinch today.
160 Robinson Road, 14-04, Singapore, 068593
UEN: 202221862D
160 Robinson Road, 14-04, Singapore, 068593
UEN: 202221862D
160 Robinson Road, 14-04, Singapore, 068593
UEN: 202221862D
Accelerated deployment, automated management and sustainable disposal built into one subscription.
