Circular Economy of Refurbished Smartphones in the European Union : Research on Drivers and Barriers

Abstract

The European Union is dedicated to achieving a transition towards a circular economy influenced by various factors, including policies, manufacturers, and consumer attitudes towards circular products. The linear economic model's environmental impacts and the increasing costs of finite raw materials have led to the circular economic model's growing appeal. However, this transition presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses and governments.

Through a narrative literature review, this thesis investigates the drivers and barriers to the circular economy of refurbished smartphones. The research synthesizes current knowledge on the subject and analyses the supporting and impeding factors for refurbishing smartphones in the European Union.

The authors identified 11 drivers and 21 barriers to the circular economy of refurbished smartphones. The drivers and barriers were categorized under three themes, which are legislation and policies, manufacturing and infrastructure, and consumer behaviour. The findings reveal that these factors are highly interconnected, and a holistic approach involving policies and stakeholder collaboration is necessary to promote the transition to a circular economy of refurbished smartphones.