Technology giant Dell has become the first computer manufacturer to launch a PC made partly of third-party certified 'closed loop' plastics. The computer's Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification verifies that the Dell OptiPlex 3030 All-in-One, launched in June 2014, comprises at least 10% closed loop post-consumer recycled plastics in its chassis enclosure.
By using plastic from recycled electronics in the new OptiPlex machine, Dell is making a carbon saving of 11% compared with a similar product made with virgin plastics, the company says. It plans to use this approach as a blueprint for reusing metals and other materials, as it works towards its goal of using 50 million pounds of recycled plastic and other sustainable materials in its products by 2020, helping to create a circular economy for IT.
"By moving to close the loop on plastics in computers, Dell is helping to reduce e-waste, save resources and prevent further plastic pollution," says Nigel Hunton, MBA's CEO. "Integrating its take-back programme with its 'closed loop' manufacturing supply chain should make the solution even more efficient, ensuring materials in end-of-life machines can be used again in new products.