Rilleux-la-Pape,
France
Why is this important?
The digital carbon footprint is one of the most pressing issues in decarbonization, accounting for 6% of global carbon emissions and growing at a double-digit rate. By 2030, this could reach 20%. With over 40 billion digital products in circulation, terminal production alone constitutes 80% of the total digital impact. Despite the crucial impact of this sector, only 17% of all end-of-life devices are effectively collected, and less than 5% are refurbished. Additionally, 70% of the refurbished computers purchased in Europe come from China and the US. Developing efficient refurbishment facilities in Europe is essential.
Why does this project need financial support?
Thanks to carbon credits, Alt Eco aims to double its capacity within the next five years. This funding will support the training of labor needed to refurbish digital products and finance the expansion of Alt Eco's reconditioning operations. Despite the significant environmental and social benefits, IT refurbishment remains a minor part of the market compared to new device production. Carbon credits will help bridge this gap, making Alt Eco's sustainable practices more economically viable and widely adopted.
What is unique with this project?
Alt Eco has a very strong environmental impact, but also a significant social impact. Alt Eco has a partnership with three jails around Rilleux-la-Pape, enabling prison inmates to learn refurbishment skills, facilitating their reintegration into society when they are released.