In 2017, a visionary team of ‘Alchemists’ in Dublin, Ireland, established Alchemy with the ambitious goal of developing a circular solution for technology. Fast forward five years, and Alchemy has become the world’s fastest-growing circular technology firm, pioneering a new era in tech sustainability.
Alchemy is redefining how we think about old technology. Rather than simply discarding outdated devices, the company breathes new life into them, offering high-quality, affordable refurbished tech that sets the stage for a more sustainable future. By teaming up with major tech manufacturers, retailers, and resellers, Alchemy is cutting down on electronic waste and democratizing access to technology, making it more affordable for everyone.
With its headquarters in Dublin and operations spanning 12 countries and reaching 60 nations across four continents, Alchemy’s cutting-edge technology suite supports every aspect of the circular tech ecosystem. From trade-ins and enhancements to repairs and resales, their solutions cater to both B2B and D2C channels. Alchemy’s in-house systems ensure transparency, security, and efficiency in the trade-in process, making it simpler for both businesses and consumers.
Alchemy’s Commitment to a Greener Future
Electronic waste (e-waste) is surging, making it one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally. In 2019 alone, the world generated 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste, with a mere 17.4% recycled. The rest ended up in landfills or incinerators, leaching hazardous toxins into our environment.
Alchemy is tackling this problem head-on by partnering with Greenly, a carbon-accounting platform. This collaboration makes Alchemy the first device refurbisher to certify CO2e savings for each device sold. This certification helps businesses understand the full environmental impact of their tech assets and align purchases with sustainability goals, simplifying the measurement of potential savings.
With the refurbished tech market booming—growing 20 times faster than the overall retail sector and projected to hit €120 billion by 2025—Alchemy’s rigorous testing and comprehensive reporting underscore its commitment to quality and sustainability. Their efforts are reducing e-waste and mitigating health risks associated with improper disposal of hazardous materials.
Tackling Sustainability Challenges
Like any forward-thinking business operating in the device refurbishment industry, Alchemy faces many challenges. Creating an efficient network for collecting end-of-life devices without increasing environmental impact and managing the disposal of non-refurbishable parts are ongoing priorities. Balancing operational growth with sustainable practices remains highly important.
However, one of the main challenges Alchemy faces is educating consumers and businesses about the benefits of refurbished devices. Encouraging a shift towards sustainable tech consumption requires continuous effort and a change in societal values.
Stephen Wise, Global Marketing Director at Alchemy
“DHL’s GoGreen Plus service has enabled our shipping to operate in a more sustainable way, aligning with our overall strategy. Therefore providing a tangible benefit to our business. This kind of collaboration is really important so our businesses and consumers can make better choices for the good of our planet.”
The GoGreen Plus Partnership with DHL Express
To further its environmental commitment, Alchemy has partnered with DHL Express and opted for the GoGreen Plus service. This collaboration is a key step in reducing carbon emissions associated from air shipments, aligning with Alchemy’s sustainability goals.
The GoGreen Plus service helps Alchemy address Scope 3 emissions and provides valuable data for strategic planning and transparent reporting. The service has brought tangible environmental benefits, including the adoption of electric vehicles for freight transportation and the use of sustainable fuel options.
GoGreen Plus also enhances Alchemy’s CSR strategy by bolstering its sustainability credentials and supporting its ecological initiatives.
Since adopting GoGreen Plus, Alchemy has made significant investments in reducing CO2 emissions for all express shipments via air transportation with DHL Express. This investment, validated annually by SGS, reflects Alchemy’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.
To learn more about DHL Express's GoGreen Plus service, visit this page.
