Old tablets and laptops are being recycled more often

More laptops and tablets recycled

Among people aged 16 and older who own (or have owned) a mobile telephone or smartphone, 55 percent said that they kept their old device at home. Nearly a quarter sold or gave away their old device, and 14 percent handed it in to be be recycled.
In 2024, more people are handing in their old laptops (18 percent) or tablets (13 percent) for recycling than they did in 2022 (15 percent and 10 percent, respectively). These devices are less likely to be sold or given away than old mobile phones.

Larger devices such as desktop computers are more likely to be handed in for recycling; 36 percent of desktop owners did this in 2024. Additionally, 22 percent keep the old devices at home, and 18 percent sell them or give them away.

People aged 65 and over recycle the most

In 2024, 24 percent of people aged 65 and over reported returning their old mobile phones for recycling, compared with 12 percent of people aged under 65, who are more likely to sell or give away their old mobile phone (26 percent, compared to 16 percent of those over 65). People aged 65 and over were also more likely to hand in their old laptops, tablets and desktops for recycling.

Brand, price and technical performance are more important than sustainability

When purchasing a smartphone or tablet, people look mainly at the brand, model or size of the device. When purchasing a laptop or desktop, people mainly consider the speed and memory, and focus less on the brand, model and price.

Sustainability and environmental considerations play a secondary role when choosing new devices. Around 10 percent of consumers consider energy consumption, and 5 percent consider factors involving sustainability, such as the use of environmentally friendly materials or whether the device can be repaired. A returns service, whereby an old or obsolete device can be returned to the seller free of charge, or in return for a discount or additional warranty on a subsequent purchase, is a decisive factor for 2 percent of buyers.