By launching its unique Sweet Lemon Certification[1] and four-cycle strategy, BYTE International Co., Ltd. (BYTE) has created a Product-as-a-Service low-carbon business model.
Through investment in the IT equipment leasing market, BYTE has turned reverse logistics from a traditional passive terminal role to a proactive one, not only ensuring that products can be fully recycled within the enterprise through “closed-loops”, but also achieving the advanced solution of Device-as-a-Service. It has designed a four-cycle plan for the recycling and reuse of rental equipment:
The first cycle is to rent to own for 3 to 4 years, and to recycle the device at the end of the period.
During this phase, BYTE negotiates large-scale leasing plans and provides customers with the latest brandnew computer-related equipment. The maximum term for each lease is no more than four years, and the equipment is taken back after expiration.
The second phase is recycling and refurbishing. After passing the “Sweet Lemon Certification”, a refurbished device is provided for short-term rentals and use by small and medium-sized enterprises.
Repair and refurbishing services are provided for equipment recycled in the first phase, and “Sweet Lemon Certified” products are provided for short-term rental to small and medium-sized enterprises or events. Upon expiration of the lease, the equipment is taken back by BYTE.
The third phase is donating to rural schools and government agencies for effective use.
After the equipment recycled in the second round is repaired and refurbished, it is donated to primary and secondary schools or charity foundations, and the equipment is inspected and maintained every year until the equipment is finally no longer usable and recycled.
The fourth phase entails EOL (End of Life) post-material remanufacturing.
When even in the final recycling the product cannot be processed, fully functional parts will be disassembled and used as raw materials for production or remanufactured into other products.
These four cycles provide comprehensive services for the life cycle of electronic products.
Benefits
- This approach can extend product life, reduce electronic waste, promotes reduced material use at the manufacturing end, thereby reducing the overall carbon footprint.
[1] Products that meet quality standards after passing BYTE’s maintenance test will obtain Sweet Lemon certification and receive a Sweet Lemon refurb resume, allowing consumers to fully trace the entire history of the product.