Digitility reports significant increase in device distribution in 2023–2024

By connecting technology donors with recipients, this nonprofit organization dispels misconceptions about the reliability of refurbished computers.

NORTH CONWAY, NH / ACCESSWIRE / May 29, 2024 / In an age when digital connectivity is becoming increasingly important, many people still face significant barriers to accessing connected devices with large screens. For four decades, digital has been at the forefront of solving this problem. Between 2023 and March 2024, the organization made significant progress, distributing nearly 55,000 computing devices with a total recoverable market value of approximately $4.1 million to 227 nationwide nonprofit organizations committed to helping those in need.

The donation is estimated to have saved enough energy to power nearly 4,545 U.S. households for a year, reduced greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking more than 2,672 cars off the road, and prevented the equivalent of solid waste generated by 5,229 households by repurposing existing technology computers. that will help those in need. Despite these achievements, outdated stigmas and misconceptions about donating a gently used computer persist.

More than 36 million Americans do not have a personal computer at home, and millions of households need multiple devices to provide their families with essential access to education, telehealth and employment services. By offering refurbished computers donated by businesses and individuals, Digitunity, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring everyone has access to a computer, is meeting this need but still finds that people have misconceptions about the value it can provide donated and reused technology.

Susan Krautbauer, senior director of development and technology industry veteran at Digitunity, outlines and dispels five common stereotypes about refurbished computers: 1) they are just old, used devices, 2) they are damaged or defective, 3) they are outdated and slow, 4) they are less reliable than new ones and 5) they are risky to buy and do not provide good value. By addressing these misconceptions, Digitunity aims to increase the use of these devices, benefiting more people and families, by proving that refurbished computers are a viable and valuable option.

A refurbished computer is not the same as a used computer, nor does it necessarily mean that it has been damaged or defective. Refurbished computers are thoroughly tested, repaired and updated to perform like new, and often come with a warranty to ensure reliability.

It’s common for refurbished devices to be relatively new – usually three to five years old. Typically, refurbished computers come from major computer manufacturers and are maintained according to recommended schedules by companies, schools or governments. Through rigorous testing, repair and certification processes, refurbished computers can be as reliable as new, and are high-quality workhorses that can still deliver peak performance.

Refurbished computers are not risky or defective. Sometimes these are returned products that reputable suppliers have fully repaired and tested to make sure they work perfectly. These devices come from approved donors and undergo rigorous testing, repairs and upgrades before being distributed to recipient organizations by reputable vendors or Digitunity’s trusted network.

New computers depreciate by 30% to 70% in less than a year, while refurbished computers provide all the features and performance at a significantly reduced price. A refurbished product is often cheaper than purchasing a new one and can meet the user’s needs without sacrificing quality.

In addition to reducing electronic waste, refurbished devices keep them out of landfills, reducing your carbon footprint and environmental impact. According to the Global E-Waste Statistics Partnership, 53.6 million tonnes of electronic waste was generated worldwide in 2019, but only 17.4% of it was collected and recycled.

By ensuring that manufacturers have access to repair information, materials and software, 30 states have passed or introduced “Right to Repair” legislation, which is a powerful ally in the fight against the stigma associated with refurbished computers. This initiative promotes consumers’ rights to repair and modify electronic devices without being restricted by manufacturer policies that limit access to tools, parts and information.

“Refurbished computers are powerful tools for environmental sustainability and social empowerment,” says Susan Krautbauer. “Not only do they extend the life of these devices, but they also significantly reduce e-waste and conserve valuable resources, reducing the technology’s overall environmental impact.” To learn more about how Digitunity connects computer donors with community organizations that distribute them to those in need, visit digitalunity.org.

About digitality

Digitility is a national nonprofit organization whose mission is to make it possible for everyone to own a computer. Dedicated to advancing digital equity for nearly four decades, Digitunity generates and distributes donated computers to organizations serving people in need, supports a national network of practitioners, and advises states, cities and coalitions on strategies to address the ongoing needs of those affected by the digital divide.

Contact info:

Maria Penaloza

[email protected]

SOURCE: Digital

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