UK Sustainability in Technology Market Report 2023

Stay ahead of the curve with Mintel’s UK Sustainability in Technology Market Report 2023. Our full report is packed with consumer-led market intelligence, the latest trends and consumer behaviours affecting your industry. Get a 360° view of sustainability in the tech industry to help you align your business strategy with the needs of your audience.

Below, we’ve handpicked the key insights analysed in the full report and summarised the core topics.

Key Topics Covered in this Report

• Factors affecting the market for sustainability and technology.
• The impact of inflation and the cost of living crisis on sustainability in technology.
• Purchase drivers of technology products.
• Competitive strategies and launch activity of brands operating in the sustainable technology space.
• Consumer behaviours relating to technology and sustainability.
• Consumer attitudes towards sustainability in technology, including expectations of technology brands’ sustainable practices.

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Sustainability in Technology – What do consumers want?

The cost-of-living crisis will have a knock-on effect on consumer spending on technology. Less will be spent overall, with selling old tech and buying second-hand ways consumers will seek to navigate the effects of the financial pressures they are facing. Devices for rent and refurbished devices offer opportunities for brands to push sustainable alternatives to buying new devices, and help consumers facing financial difficulties.

• 32% of UK consumers agree that renting expensive technology is a good alternative to buying outright.

Durability ranks as the third-highest factor consumers prioritise when buying a new technology product. By focusing on technology that is built to last, brands can also create a lasting impression of reliability. Sustainability can also be presented through the lens of durability, as being an ethical brand is not important to many consumers.

• 52% of consumers say that the durability of a technology product is in their top three reasons for purchasing it.

For consumers, there are barriers to recycling technology, such as not knowing where to go, and concerns over data security. Brands will need to make recycling or donating old devices easy, safe, convenient and financially worthwhile for consumers to encourage their participation. 

• 44% of UK consumers have not recycled a used technology device but would be interested in doing so in the future, highlighting the possibility that barriers to recycling exist for many consumers.

Purchase our full UK Sustainability in Technology Market Report 2023 to discover lucrative innovation opportunities to help your business grow sustainably during times of financial uncertainty.

Expert Insights from a Technology Industry Analyst

This report, written by Joe Birch, a leading technology analyst, delivers in-depth commentary and analysis to highlight current trends shaping sustainability in technology.

In the broader context of consumers’ life priorities, sustainability often takes a back seat to other areas such as health and finances. When it comes to technology, people are conflicted over acting sustainably and saving money on new devices, and want the government and brands to lead the way on sustainability efforts. To stand out on sustainability, brands can promote the durability and ease of repair of new tech, which can resonate with consumers looking for a future-proof investment.

Joe Birch
Consumer Technology Analyst