CASE STUDY 1: FAIRPHONE

“Fairphone is an excellent example of how sustainable design is conducted in a holistic perspective. This company which aims to change the electronic industry “from the inside” creates a more sustainable smartphone by implementing four main principles:

• Creating products that last: design for longevity, easy repair and modular upgrades, with the idea that “the longer you can keep your phone, the smaller its environmental footprint”.
• Reducing e-waste: they promote circular economy by encouraging the reuse and repair of their phones, researching recycling options and reducing e-waste.
• Choosing fairer materials: by the incorporation of fairer, recycled and responsibly mined materials in their phones.
• Putting people first: creating better working conditions with employee representation, income and growth opportunities for all.

Because of their commitment with the change of the sector, they share their results and standard with the industry, from responsible material sourcing to advocating for workers’ welfare, so the good practices applied can be replicated.

Fairphone is also a great example of the complexity of including sustainable products in the market, as its price is not affordable for everyone, and products with much more environmental and social impact are more competitive in terms of prices.