Some new partnerships will help a global mobile network and tech trade organization connect its members with asset distribution opportunities while allowing them to improve their sustainability stories.
The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) unveiled its Circularity Services offerings last week in conjunction with two partner companies. RGX will offer its online marketplace platform to GSMA’s 1,000-plus members, while Closing the Loop will extend its One for One recycling program to those same members.
RGX was founded in 2019 by Sean Miles and Paul Lodgson, who wanted to bring local companies and ITAD providers together after noticing a lack of efficiency in the previous disposition process. They’ve now connected more than 330 service providers nationwide, who can use the RGX platform to resell or recycle their used electronics.
“We saw the need for automation for an industry that was siloed,” said Miles, who serves as CEO.
Miles said he and GSMA leadership began speaking more than a year ago about circularity options and eventually landed on the current arrangement. The goal is to give GSMA members another avenue through which to dispose of items, Lodgson said, making an environmental impact while maximizing the potential revenue they could receive.
“We never say we can do better, but here are some options,” said Lodgson, the company’s COO. “They can try the platform and see if it’s better. The platform is very nimble. It can be customized to whatever the client wants.”
RGX tracks its customers’ certifications and can make them available should issues arise during a transaction. Initial plans are to partner with GSMA across the United States.
When it comes time to replace devices, One for One will help GSMA members make more of an impact. The service donates a used device to be recycled in a customer’s name for every new device they buy. Among One for One’s customers are Vodafone, Samsung, T-Mobile and Google.
“By linking one new device sold to the collection and responsible recycling of one end-of-life phone, we help operators take practical action on waste reduction while supporting their wider circularity ambitions,” said Joose de Kluijver, Closing the Loop CEO, who also noted the relationship adds brand value.
GSMA leadership said the partnerships will enable the group’s members to take action on sustainability.
“Through these partnerships, operators can access proven services that help accelerate their circularity ambitions and respond to growing demand for more sustainable approaches to device lifecycle management,” GSMA CEO Sianne Ryder said. “The opportunity is a win-win. Circular approaches are both more sustainable and deliver meaningful operational and commercial benefits for the industry.”
