Collage of four images depicting the four stages of the circular economy of devices; rethink, reuse, repair and recycle.

Environment

Embracing a sustainable future: TELUS and the circular economy

Oct 5, 2023
At TELUS, we're leading the way in the circular economy by repairing, repurposing and recycling technology to create a more sustainable future. So far, we've kept more than 15 million devices from landfills. We're also proud to announce our continued sponsorship of the Circular Innovation Council as they host Circular Economy Month in Canada for the second year in a row.

Understanding the circular economy

The circular economy is an economic model that prioritizes sustainability and aims to minimize waste while maximizing the value of resources. Unlike the traditional linear economy, which follows a "take, make, dispose" pattern, the circular economy promotes a "reduce, reuse, recycle" process. It focuses on keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible.

Why the circular economy matters


  • Waste Reduction: One of the primary benefits of the circular economy is it drastically reduces waste generation. Products and materials are designed with durability and recyclability in mind, minimizing the amount that ends up in landfills.
  • Resource Conservation: A circular approach has the ability to conserve valuable resources. By extending the lifespan of products and materials, we reduce the need for raw materials, lowering the overall environmental impact of resource extraction and production.
  • Economic Opportunities: The circular economy presents new economic opportunities by creating markets for refurbished products, recycling and remanufacturing. It also fosters innovation and stimulates job growth in sustainable industries.
A bin of TELUS WiFi Hubs.

A bin of TELUS WiFi Hubs.

Our commitment to the circular economy

We are dedicated to incorporating circular economy principles into our business operations, products and services. Our vision is to enable a more sustainable future for Canadians by contributing to:
  • Product Longevity: We're working to extend the lifespan of our products and infrastructure equipment. By offering products that are easy to repair and upgrade, we reduce electronic waste and promote the reuse of technology.
  • Sustainable Suppliers: We strive to work with businesses that adopt sustainable, ethical, labour, health and safety, and environmental principles that align with ours, while ensuring the well-being of their employees, contractors and communities.
  • Recycling Initiatives: TELUS is actively involved in recycling, recovering and repurposing electronic waste. Our smartphone repair business, Mobile Klinik, is at the forefront of our recycling and upcycling efforts. We also encourage our customers to recycle their old devices through our Trade-In program in our stores.
  • Circular Innovation Council Sponsorship: We’re proud to support the Circular Innovation Council for the second year in a row as they host Circular Economy Month in Canada. This awareness month brings together thought leaders, businesses and communities to promote the circular economy and share best practices.

Join us in embracing the circular economy

As we strive to build a better future for all Canadians, we invite you to join us in embracing the circular economy. Whether it's through recycling your old devices, supporting eco-friendly products, or advocating for sustainable practices, every small step makes a difference. Together, we can create a more sustainable and circular future.

To learn more about TELUS’ commitment to the circular economy, visit
telus.com/recycle
.