American insurerer and trade-in company Assurant is actively embracing a circular economy through various programs and services that integrate circular practices, especially in the mobile device sector. As a leader in the shift from a linear to a circular economy, Assurant focuses on extending the lifespan of electronics and minimizing its environmental impact. Assurant acquires smartphones, tablets, and wearables directly from providers, retailers, and OEMs through trade-in, buyback, and return programs. This initiative enables partners to engage in the circular economy by giving used devices a new life.
Trade-in and upgrade programs
These programs reintroduce devices into the ecosystem, preparing them for a second or even third lifecycle. By doing so, Assurant helps reduce electronic waste and supports the sustainable use of resources. Assurant's EcoPhone solution provides refurbished smartphones with a second life, offering an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new phones. This approach contributes to lowering the carbon footprint associated with electronic devices. Assurant operates three Device Care Centers in the United States, all certified with R2 Standard and RIOS. These centers leverage advanced technology, including robotics and AI, to streamline processes and ensure safety for mobile device trade-ins, upgrades, and repairs.
Assurant Carbon IQSM
Assurant Carbon IQSM offers a comprehensive CO2 impact assessment solution that assists companies in defining and refining their circularity strategies for mobile device ecosystems. This tool is pivotal in helping businesses manage and reduce their environmental impact.
Key focus areas for Assurant’s circularity strategy
Assurant considers circularity a strategic priority and aims to integrate sustainability into product design with a focus on longevity. The company targets three critical aspects of mobile device circularity: production and modularity, lifespan, and recyclability and they are trying to achieve these through trade-in schemes and recycling.
Achievements 2023
Assurant is committed to integrating circularity into its operations and products to create a more sustainable future. In 2023, Assurant refurbished 22 million mobile devices through its trade-in and upgrade programs, significantly contributing to the circular economy by preventing devices from ending up in landfills and conserving resources.
Market

Trade-in

Repair
