Milieu Centraal, an independent Dutch organization renowned for offering trustworthy environmental advice, has launched a new initiative to inspire consumers to opt for refurbished electronics. The campaign, titled “Tijd voor iets nieuws? Kies refurbished,” is accompanied by the launch of a dedicated website, kiesrefurbished.nl. This platform provides practical tips for buying refurbished and pre-owned devices while emphasizing the significance of the Keurmerk Refurbished quality label. Companies such as Fixje, Leapp, and Renewd, which adhere to this certification, are highlighted as reliable sources for quality products and sellers.
One in five Dutch citizens unaware of refurbished products
According to recent surveys, 20% of Dutch respondents are unfamiliar with the concept of refurbished products. Jelle Pothoven, an expert in Circular Economy at Milieu Centraal, explains, “A refurbished device, such as a laptop or phone, is a previously used or returned product that has undergone thorough inspection, repair, and cleaning by an expert before being resold. Refurbished products are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, as they help conserve resources and reduce electronic waste.”
The challenge of choosing refurbished devices
While 46% of surveyed individuals find the idea of buying a refurbished laptop or phone logical, many struggle with the decision due to concerns about durability, quality, and software updates. Pothoven notes, “It can be challenging to identify a high-quality refurbished device. Without a legally protected definition, any seller can label a product as ‘refurbished.’”
To address these concerns, kiesrefurbished.nl provides clear, independent advice to help consumers make informed choices. The website also offers tips to extend the lifespan of existing devices, reducing the need for immediate replacements.
Promoting the Keurmerk Refurbished label
Milieu Centraal emphasizes the Keurmerk Refurbished label, set up by the industry and backed up by the trade organization Techniek Nederland, as a key indicator of quality and reliability. Pothoven encourages consumers to look for this certification when purchasing refurbished devices. Currently, only 10% of Dutch people own a second-hand phone, some of which are refurbished. “I hope this number increases and that refurbished becomes the new normal by 2025,” he adds.
A step towards sustainability
By promoting refurbished products, Milieu Centraal aims to drive a shift towards more sustainable consumer habits. The organization’s efforts underline the environmental and economic benefits of choosing refurbished over new devices, contributing to a circular economy.
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