Study: Refurbished tech cuts back-to-school carbon footprint

27 billion gallons of CO2e emissions offset by back-to-school shoppers

The latest Back Market data reveals that, in 2023 alone, we helped offset a staggering 27.1 billion gallons of CO2e emissions thanks to students and parents choosing refurbished tech during their back-to-school shopping. That’s nearly a quarter (25%) of the total CO2e saved by Back Market in the entire year (108.5 billion gallons).

To date, we have prevented more than one million tons of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere. Consider how much of that can be attributed to back-to-school shoppers.

Back-to-school shopping is a prime time for electronics purchases, with MacBooks and tablets being the most popular items in the US. More specifically, the MacBook Air (2020) 13.3-inch with the Apple M1 chip tops the list as Back Market shoppers’ most wanted refurbished tech.

When we look at the purchases of college students, their most purchased items are:

1. Smartphones 
2. MacBooks 
3. iPads 

Schools and education departments are also in search of refurbished tech each school year. Their most purchased items, in order, are:

1. Tablets 
2. MacBooks 
3. Laptops

Thankfully the overall public has begun accepting the benefits of salvaging tech, with 44% saying they now recycle the devices they no longer use, according to Back Market data. 39% say they now donate or sell their older usable devices, while 27% regularly opt for refurbished and 25% prefer secondhand tech.

Based on these statistics, the value of sustainability may be on its way to becoming a larger tech trend than the “newest is best” sentiment we’re familiar with. As the school data implies, part of the appeal of sustainable tech may be the bulk cost savings it delivers.

Refurbished tech saves an average of 90% emissions compared to buying new

The environmental benefits of refurbished tech extend far beyond the school year. Our research shows that choosing refurbished vs. new can slash your overall carbon footprint by an incredible average of 90%.

But it’s not just the environment that wins. Refurbished tech is a fantastic way to fight the pressure to upgrade. Did you know that 45% of US consumers feel pressured to upgrade their tech, even if it’s perfectly functional? 

According to a recent Back Market survey, sustainability is a growing motivator for tech consumers. We found that 53% of people now factor in sustainability when making tech purchases.

The opportunity to reduce your carbon footprint through refurbished tech is possible across all the devices a student may need for school. Compared to buying a new device, you could reduce carbon emissions with refurbished products by up to:

• 92% on smartphones
• 90% on desktops
• 89% on laptops
• 88% on tablets 

Refurbished tech offers a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative when upgrading, whether it’s for the start of a new school year or not. It makes it possible to keep up with your tech needs without contributing to e-waste or breaking the bank.

Shoppers expected to spend over $300 on new tech for back-to-school season

Back-to-school shopping can be a budget buster, with the National Retail Federation reporting that 69% of US shoppers planned to buy electronics for the 2024-2025 school year. And college students were projected to spend an average of $1,364 per person, with these cost projections nearly doubling since 2019.

Electronics are a major contributor to these expenses, with the NRF also reporting that K-12 shoppers expect to shell out over $309 just on new tech for their students.  These costs can quickly add up, especially for families with multiple children. And, with a large portion of their classwork done online, college students need affordable tech options.

US College students report that over half (52%) of their electronics spending is influenced by specific course requirements. Similarly, 51% of non-college back-to-school shoppers say the same thing.

It’s interesting to note that 28% of the general public believe that sustainable tech product options will be more expensive. This belief has held them back from adjusting their consumption habits.

Thankfully, refurbished tech offers a fantastic opportunity to significantly reduce these back-to-school expenses. Research shows you can typically achieve savings of 40-50% with pre-loved devices compared to buying new ones.

44% of young consumers are already open to buying secondhand tech

The good news is that the trend towards sustainable shopping is undeniable, and Gen Z is at the forefront of this movement. A recent Back Market survey revealed that 44% of global shoppers aged 16-24 are already comfortable with buying secondhand tech. 

In fact, 33% of 16-24 year olds around the world actually prefer secondhand tech. The chart below shows the age breakdown of those who self-report as shoppers who choose pre-owned devices over new ones.

The young, eco-conscious Generation Z recognizes the environmental benefits of pre-loved devices, and they’re not afraid to challenge traditional shopping habits. A recent study from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania found that 75% of Gen Z prefer making sustainable purchases rather than selections based on brand names. 

Another National Retail Federation’s back-to-school survey supports these findings, indicating that 39% of back-to-school shoppers and 35% of back-to-college shoppers would consider buying secondhand clothing and accessories for their school year. The data we’ve shared paints a clear picture.

Choosing refurbished tech for back-to-school is a win-win for students, families, and the planet. By opting for pre-loved devices, you can create tech emissions savings that significantly reduce your carbon footprint, save hundreds on essential tech, and embrace a sustainable shopping approach championed by Gen Z.  

Are you in search of the perfect refurbished device for the upcoming school year? Take advantage of Back Market’s student discount and save even more on your back-to-school tech upgrade.

How to save on buying tech for school

Whether it’s a tablet for your younger child or a laptop for your high schooler or college student, the average back-to-school costs can add up. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to save money during the busy shopping season.

1. Set a budget

Setting a budget is crucial for managing the costs of new devices. Consider how much you can realistically afford to spend, factoring in other essential purchases like new clothes and other school supplies.

A well-defined budget helps narrow down your choices, making it easier to select the best devices that meet your needs and spending limit. Sticking to your budget can help you avoid impulse purchases and make financially smart decisions.

2. Research and compare prices

Considering your budget, begin exploring the tech market. Research average prices for devices your student needs and compare different brands and models to find options that offer the best features and value for your money. Prioritize essential features and look for devices that offer good value for money within your budget.

3. Buy refurbished or pre-owned devices

Feeling the pinch of new tech prices? Consider buying refurbished or pre-owned devices. Reputable retailers like Back Market offer fantastic deals on these options. 

Back Market provides verified refurbished tech, in perfect working conditions according to industry standards. You’re getting the same product you would from the manufacturer, just at a fraction of the cost. 

Plus, buying refurbished helps the environment by reducing e-waste — a valuable lesson for your kids in our age of overconsumption.

Many retailers, including Back Market, even offer a student discount for college students, allowing you to save even more. Check if your child qualifies for this discount to stretch your budget further.

And starting July 29, 2024, Back Market shoppers can get $50 off select MacBook models for a limited time only. 

4. Consider older tech models 

New models of the same devices are constantly released, often offering slight spec improvements. These upgrades may be tempting, but consider purchasing last year’s model to stay within your budget. It’s likely a very similar version of the tech you’re interested in, and it will still provide excellent performance. 

Methodology

A portion of the data cited above came from a 2023 survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Back Market, which analyzed consumer technology and consumption habits. The study aimed to identify broader patterns and trends in demographic and attitudinal behavior in five countries: Spain, France, Germany, the UK, and the US. This report included findings from 2,000 interviews per country (10,001 interviews in total) with respondents between the ages of 16 to 74 years old. 

Sourcing 

1. National Retail Foundation. “Majority of Back-to-Class Shoppers Have Already Begun Purchasing School Items.” Accessed July 25, 2024.
2. Statista. “How much do you expect to spend on back-to-school shopping in each of the following areas?” Accessed July 1, 2024.
3. National Retail Foundation. “A look at what’s left for back-to-class shopping.” Accessed July 1, 2024.
4. World Economic Forum. “Gen Z cares about sustainability more than anyone else – and is starting to make others feel the same.” Accessed July 1, 2024.
5. Retail Brew. “More parents will opt for the budget-friendly resale option for this year’s back-to-school shopping.” Accessed July 1, 2024.