Models for organized reuse of white goods

Important results from the project

The project has investigated whether it is possible to create a system for collecting white goods for reuse instead of for material recycling. A regional test has been studied where the collected products have been repaired, tested and provided with a function guarantee. The appliances or parts of them have since been sold. Through literature studies, flow and environmental analyzes, alternative systems have been evaluated. Based on these efforts, an idea of a platform-based system has been developed. It would be more cost effective and better for preventing transport damages.

Expected long term effects

Based on studies of the regional trial with collection of used white goods from three Recycling Centres (ÅVCs), we estimate that 10-20% of the withdrawn products can be reused completely or in parts. During the trial, it has observed that used appliances are stolen from the ÅVCs and that white goods are damaged in the transport to the ÅVCs. The project can conclude that existing regulations weaken the conditions for this type of re-use if the appliances at the ÅVCs are classified as waste. Furthermore, if the chemical tax is used on used goods it creates a cost challenge.

Approach and implementation

The project began with a survey of experiences from similar systems. In a second phase, the survey and studies of current practical tests were used to identify and answer questions about the economic, legal and environmental conditions for assessing the potential for different models in a future national system. The project was concluded by describing an alternative to the studied system, a platform-based system and by listing questions that need to be answered in a stage 2 in order for the tests to be expanded to a cost-effective and innovation-promoting system.