The Challenge
This National Recycling Week, from 14 – 20 October, Medequip Connect want to shine a light on an important challenge in our industry: what happens to the leftover analogue equipment as we shift to digital solutions?
By January 2027, analogue telephone services will be switched off as telecoms infrastructure upgrades to digital connectivity. Across the sector, traditional analogue telecare devices need to be replaced by digital units, a transition that has already begun or even been completed in many cases. When the digital switchover was announced in 2017, it was estimated that approximately 1.8 million analogue devices were in use and needed to be updated to digital devices. The scale of this transition is significant, as the switchover progresses and analogue devices are no longer needed, critical questions are raised about how to responsibly manage what is left behind.
Our Solution
Addressing the challenge of redundant analogue equipment is essential to minimise environmental impact, avoiding items finding their way to landfill, and promoting sustainability in the Technology Enabled Care (TEC) sector. In response, Medequip Connect created a sustainability taskforce, who engaged with industry partners and reviewed WEEE Recycling regulations, to ensure the Digital Switch has no adverse impact.
The team identified an eco-friendly initiative that would see analogue TEC alarms transformed and re-purposed as community benches, as part of a programme that supports waste reduction whilst also giving back to the community.
Collected analogue equipment is dismantled with internal electronics responsibly disposed utilising WEEE Regulations. External plastic casing is then set aside, and the equivalent amount of plastic regenerated into durable recycled benches.
Supporting the Community Through Sustainable Solutions
OneStoneGrove are a joint community centre and church run by the Stonegrove Community Trust operating in the heart of Barnet, where Medequip Connect run a TEC service for over 6,000 people.
Running a vibrant community centre that provides a range of services, from social events to support programmes for residents of all ages, the trust is a hub for local activities, promoting inclusivity, connection, and well-being.
OneStoneGrove was selected as a perfect location to donate our first set of recycled benches, replacing the weathered wooden benches outside the community centre. By donating benches made from recycled plastic, we have been able to create a more welcoming space for visitors and residents.
Our project with Stonegrove Community Trust demonstrates what recycling can achieve when used to benefit communities, while addressing the challenges posed by the digital switchover.
Adam Hartley from Stonegrove Community Trust shared the impact the benches have had, “The generous donation of benches has helped make our community centre a more welcoming and inclusive space. The benches provide comfortable seating for visitors and local residents, allowing them to rest, socialise, and enjoy the outdoor space. We have a large number of older residents as well as young people from the school next door and seeing them congregate around the benches is great. This has fostered a stronger sense of community and made our centre a more enjoyable place for everyone.”
Melanie Whitter, who led the project on behalf of Medequip Connect, explained how the scheme began, “I was introduced to the team at Stonegrove by the Barnet Age UK team. During a discussion with their team, they mentioned how the wooden benches at the front of the building had deteriorated. Knowing the importance of the space to local residents, and in line with our recycling commitments, it was clear that support this project would be a meaningful way to give back. It was a pleasure to meet the team on-site and help in such a tangible way.”
Working closely with Stonegrove Community Trust, we were able to extend our commitment to sustainability beyond recycling alone, creating benches that can serve the community for years to come. By reusing plastic and transforming it for local residents, the project has not only reduced waste but also helped to strengthen community ties.
Building a Sustainable Future
Recycling is more than just reducing waste – it’s about making a lasting difference. National Recycle week encourages everyone to think about how they handle waste, from recycling at home to supporting initiatives that champion sustainability. At Medequip Connect, we recognise the importance of addressing the challenge of analogue equipment disposal in the digital era. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and supporting the communities we service, striving to make a lasting positive difference.
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