The communications powerhouse and nonprofit ITAD are expanding a pilot program for collecting and distributing used devices, using a technology platform from Recycle Global Exchange to connect with local service providers. | Tada Images/Shutterstock
Communications giant AT&T, technology platform Recycle Global Exchange and nonprofit Compudopt are partnering to expand a program for collecting used electronics into more than 100 AT&T stores in the southeastern U.S.
A pilot program began in 2024 and now is available in select AT&T stores in Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, according to a press release.
Participating retail stores have bins to collect consumer devices, including phones, tablets and laptops for refurbishment, recycling or reuse. For every 10 pounds of e-scrap collected, AT&T and Compudopt will donate one laptop to a person in need, up to 2,000 laptops.
Houston-based Compudopt will process the collected devices and refurbish laptops for distribution to students and others who lack access to technology. Devices that don’t qualify for refurbishment will be recycled, the press release said.
The in-store collection program is using Colorado-based partner Recycle Global Exchange’s technology to connect collection sites with local service providers to simplify logistics.
“This program creates a direct line from discarded technology to life-changing access,” said Megan Steckly, CEO of Compudopt, in a written statement. “By turning stores into collection points, we’re not only keeping harmful materials out of landfills — we’re delivering opportunity to the people who need it most.”
Last August, Compudopt partnered with AT&T to provide free laptops, backpacks and school supplies to 13,000 students in need across the country. And in 2022, AT&T donated $5.1 million to Compudopt to provide 10,000 computers to students in need, and provided employee volunteers to help distribute more than 1,000 refurbished laptops across the U.S.
In December, Compudopt announced a similar partnership with retailer Micro Center, and in 2023 participated in a Chicago donation drive for electronic devices.