Millions of people in the UK face digital exclusion, lacking access to devices and internet connectivity essential for daily life. At the same time, the country is grappling with a growing e-waste crisis as usable electronic devices are discarded instead of reused. Device redistribution presents a practical solution to both challenges, enabling unused technology to be refurbished and provided to those in need, bridging the digital divide while reducing waste. So why is the practice not widespread? 

This report examines the barriers to device redistribution through insights gathered from interviews with over 25 organisations in the field. The findings highlight that due to a lack of policy to support redistribution efforts, there is still an insufficient supply of suitable devices to meet demand. To address these challenges, the report proposes targeted measures to encourage the mainstream adoption of the practice. 

Overcoming these barriers would enable the UK to increase the supply of reusable devices, reduce e-waste and support digital inclusion. Such efforts will deliver meaningful social and environmental benefits, allowing more people to access the technology they need for daily life.