Virgin Media O2 has revealed that its Recycle for Business programme has processed 45,000 devices since its relaunch in October 2023. The initiative enables companies to trade in unused technology, such as smartphones and routers, which are then securely data wiped, refurbished, or recycled. In return, businesses receive either cashback or credit, with the option to donate proceeds to the Good Things Foundation, a charity dedicated to promoting digital inclusion across the UK.

Since the relaunch, companies participating in the scheme have collectively earned close to £330,000 by recycling unused equipment. Virgin Media O2 emphasises that this service not only supports sustainability by preventing electronic waste but also helps bridge the digital divide by enabling device donations to those in need. Dana Haidan, Chief Sustainability Officer at VMO2, highlighted the importance of making it easy for businesses to adopt more sustainable practices and support digital access for others.

Despite these positive outcomes, VMO2’s research indicates there are still around 11.8 million unused business devices across the UK that could be recycled or reused. With the UK among the highest producers of electronic waste per capita in the world, Virgin Media O2 continues to expand its efforts, aiming to achieve 10 million ‘circular actions’ across both its business and consumer recycling initiatives by the end of the year.