Europeans don’t know that their unused cell phones are worth 140 billion euros

Recent statistics^[1] from the European Commission show that over 700 million cell phones are currently unused in the EU. With an estimated average value of 200 euros^[2] per handset, this untapped treasure is worth no less than 140 billion euros.

Millions of new smartphones are purchased for the festive season, multiplying the number of unused devices in households. This annual wave exacerbates the already existing problem of technological glut, underlining the urgent need to reintegrate these devices into the circular economy.

” We absolutely must encourage the circulation of these unused appliances,” says Martine Hardeveld Kleuver, Country Lead Netherlands and Belgium at Swappie. ” By putting them back on the market, not only do we unlock substantial economic value, but we also contribute to preserving the environment by reducing e-waste.”

A KANTAR study carried out by Swappie reveals that 67% of consumers keep their old smartphone. Beyond the economic implications, unused cell phones contain valuable materials, including essential raw materials for new technologies. According to the European Commission, the collection rate for cell phones is less than 5%, with around 700 million unused devices stored in EU households. Improving their collection and recycling represents a major challenge in terms of resource efficiency and environmental protection.

As a pioneer in the refurbished smartphone market, Swappie offers consumers high-quality devices at affordable prices, a compelling alternative to new models. Each iPhone goes through a meticulous refurbishing process, enabling the company to guarantee compliance with strict quality standards and offer a reliable, eco-responsible solution to technology enthusiasts.

Faced with the growing accumulation of unused phones, particularly after the holiday season, Swappie encourages consumers to consider the positive impact, both ecological and economic, of reselling these devices. Putting these smartphones back into circulation supports the circular economy while combating the proliferation of e-waste.