Ethical Electronics & Appliances Guide
Smart choices for electronics & appliances.
Compare buying strategies: new vs. used, repair vs. replace, energy efficiency, and the right to repair. Real impacts on e-waste, energy costs, and materials extraction.
What this covers
- Buying strategies: New, refurbished, used, repair vs. replace. Where to buy secondhand (Swappa, Back Market, eBay, local).
- Energy efficiency: ENERGY STAR, EnergyGuide labels, lifetime cost vs. upfront cost. Real savings from high-efficiency refrigerators, washers, dishwashers.
- Right to repair: Repairability scores, access to parts, independent repair. Building durability vs. planned obsolescence.
- E-waste impact: Rare earth metals, manufacturing carbon, water use. Why keeping appliances longer matters more than picking the “greenest” new one.
- Specific appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, phones, laptops.
Compare Buying Strategies
Whether to buy new, refurbished, or used depends on cost, energy use, repairability, and how long you’ll keep the item.
What matters most to you?
Quick take: Buying used/refurbished is usually the highest-impact choice (100% less manufacturing carbon). If buying new, ENERGY STAR + longer lifespan matters more than the greenest materials.
Strategy
BetterDescription of strategy.
Best for
Considerations
Real impacts
How to implement
Compare Specific Appliances
Different appliances have different energy costs and lifespan impacts. See real lifetime savings and where your money goes.
Pick an appliance type
Appliance Type
Annual energy cost
Lifetime savings (ENERGY STAR)
When to buy ENERGY STAR vs. standard
Upgrade your electronics & appliances
Tell us your current buying habits. We’ll explain impacts and suggest a realistic path.