Sustainability of Personal ICT Devices 2022

Almost six in ten considered hard drive characteristics when purchasing ICT device

Over two thirds (67%) of internet users said that they considered the price when purchasing their most recent ICT device. Respondents in very disadvantaged areas were far more likely to consider price (72%) when purchasing a new ICT device, compared with 64% of respondents in very affluent areas. Analysis by household composition also shows that for respondents in single parent households, price was an important factor (83%) compared with households with no children but with three plus adults (55%). See Figure 3.1 and Table 3.1.

Note that more than one option could be selected by respondents.

Almost six in ten (59%) felt that the hard drive characteristics such as its storage, speed, processor, etc. were important factors to consider when purchasing a device. See Figure 3.1 and Table 3.1.

One in six (16%) said that the energy efficiency of the device was a factor that they consider when purchasing a new device. Females were more likely than males to consider this sustainable factor when purchasing a new device – 17% compared with 14% of males. See Figure 3.1 and Table 3.1.

One in eight consider eco design of the device

The eco design of the device was important for one in eight (12%) internet users. See Figure 3.1 and Table 3.1.

The eco design of an ICT device relates to how sustainable it is. It includes its durability, does it have an easily upgradable or repairable design that require fewer materials, are environmentally friendly materials used for packaging, is it designed for longevity, etc.

One in sixteen (6%) said that the possibility to extend the life span of the device by buying an extra guarantee was a factor that they considered when purchasing their most recent ICT device, while the existence of a take-back scheme offered by the manufacturer or seller was important for just one in twenty (5%). See Figure 3.1 and Table 3.1.