CST Rolls Out Second Phase of 'Recycle Your Device' Initiative

The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) launched the second edition of the "Recycle Your Device" initiative in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), National Center for Waste Management (MWAN), Aramco, Roshn Group, Ertiqa, Jahez, Zain, SMSA, Saudi Green Initiative, Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), and CO Kitchens, which targets both individuals and businesses. This initiative supports environmental sustainability by promoting the circular economy through recycling electronic devices, which helps reduce waste and emissions. It also seeks to foster social responsibility and solidarity by making digital services accessible to needy families.
 CST provided a digital platform outlining how devices can be handed over, along with a list of qualified devices, including landline and mobile phones, tablets, modems, printers, desktops, and laptops. The initiative follows two main paths: one focuses on safely disposing of the devices and donating the value of recovered raw materials, while the other involves repairing the devices and donating them to families in need. CST also emphasized that all data will be completely erased from the devices to ensure no possibility of data recovery, reaffirming its commitment to protecting users' data and privacy.
 According to CST, the first phase of the initiative was launched in 2022 in collaboration with the MCIT, MWAN, and several private sector entities. More than 100,000 devices were donated with a market value estimated at over SAR30 million, representing a tangible step toward reducing e-waste, conserving natural resources, and enhancing the sustainability of the Kingdom's digital economy.