Design for Reuse: Inside Charter’s Device Recycling Program

Do you ever wonder what happens to your old phones, cable boxes, modems, and other electronic devices if they break or are upgraded with new technology? As the devices we use evolve and get upgraded, there is the potential for environmental impact, which is why the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has indicated that e-waste is one of the largest and most complex waste streams in the world.

Charter celebrated Earth Day this year by highlighting the important work our team of dedicated supply chain experts undertake to ensure devices are properly reused, recycled, or repurposed. With millions of devices in our customers’ homes nationwide, ensuring that they are responsibly cared for when the customer no longer needs them is no small task. That’s why Charter implemented our “Design for Reuse” recycling program, which helps reduce our environmental footprint and can extend the longevity of Charter’s products.

In 2021, we recovered over 29,000 metric tons of materials through take-back programs, and across our five National Data Centers we recycled, sold, or re-marketed over 11,000 hardware pieces. Most of the materials returned to us are cleaned, screened, and sometimes refurbished for reuse by other customers. The “Design for Reuse” program creates more energy efficient devices while also saving space in landfills, conserving scarce raw materials and precious metals, and reducing environmental pollution.

Watch the video below for a glimpse into how this process unfolds and its impact on Charter’s sustainability efforts: