Year: 2014
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Mobile devices like smart phones, tablet computers and ultraportable laptops are experiencing rapid worldwide market growth and have relatively short lifespans. Recently, embedded (non-removable) batteries were introduced that cannot be replaced by consumers. This study traces the environmental and social consequences of the introduction of embedded batteries throughout the value chain: from the original equipment manufacturers, to the users of mobile devices, to the repair, refurbishment and end-of-life recycling companies. It shows that the introduction of embedded batteries was mainly technology and design-driven, that original owners are hardly aware of embedded batteries (unless they seek to prolong the life of their phones), that embedded batteries have contributed to a thriving but mostly unauthorized repair and refurbishment market and finally that recyclers have difficulties removing the batteries. From a social and environmental sustainability perspective, reintroducing removable batteries is preferable, but the study shows this may not be feasible and examines alternative options.
Authors: Conny Bakker, Lenneke Kuijer
Language: English
Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W564451988