E-waste Application turning Trash to Cash

GS, China

In China, UNDP partnered with the private sector to develop a business model for e-waste recycling. Based on big data analysis, an app for customers was co-created with end-users. The app connects consumers with legal recycling companies for the safe disposal of e-waste.

Project Stage

Proof of Concept

Implementation time

1 - 6 months

Last update: October 05, 2023

Overview Contributors

Challenge

The increasing availability of electronic products has highlighted the need for environment-friendly disposal of toxic elements. Improper e-waste disposal poses significant health and environmental risks.

Description

The UNDP-China and Baidu partnership developed the 'Baidu Recycle' app. Version 1.0 allowed users to schedule certified collection of obsolete home appliances with high daily search volumes reaching 50,000. Version 2.0 enhances disposal company participation to boost collection capacity.

SDGs

Outcomes

Development and successful launch of app versions 1.0 and 2.0; Over 100,000 users by end of 2014; 50,000 searches per day; Pageviews reached 370,000 by August 2015; 11,429 electronic items collected and disposed by August 2015; High media praise and significant publicity.