What is RECOSI?
RECOSI, short for Regional and European Co-Operative for Social Industry, is a social franchise focused on smarter IT consumption through the reuse of ICT equipment. Founded in Ireland in early 2014 by a group of like-minded individuals, RECOSI aims to develop social enterprises that operate mainly in IT reuse and WEEE (waste electrical and electronic equipment). Over a relatively short time, it has grown into a successful multinational company providing innovative reuse services across Ireland, the UK, the USA, and Europe. The enterprise specializes in refurbishing laptops, desktops, monitors, and other IT gear sourced from global corporations and government departments throughout Europe. Proudly operating as a top-tier quality refurbisher and ethical reseller, RECOSI offers second-life computer equipment with genuine Microsoft licenses installed, ensuring all devices come with legal and licensed copies of Microsoft Windows 10 software where applicable.
Main Benefits of RECOSI
RECOSI’s approach brings a range of benefits that make it stand out in the IT refurbishment space. Here are some key figures and facts that highlight its impact:
- Produces professional quality Tier 1 products from brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Apple.
- Offers affordable, high-quality refurbished IT equipment, making tech accessible to marginalized and low-income groups.
- Helps bridge the digital divide by providing low-cost IT through a technology access scheme for non-profit organizations and relevant end users.
- Works closely with Microsoft to provide genuine licenses, ensuring legal and secure software on all devices.
- Supports sustainable and meaningful employment, especially for people with disabilities.
Quality and Affordability
One of the standout features of RECOSI is its commitment to top quality while keeping prices affordable. The refurbishment process is completely optimized, allowing the company to offer some of the best prices on the market without compromising on the quality of the products. This balance is crucial because it means customers don’t have to choose between cost and reliability. Instead, they get both. The equipment comes from trusted brands and undergoes rigorous refurbishment to ensure it meets professional standards. This makes RECOSI a go-to for anyone looking for reliable, budget-friendly IT solutions.
Social and Ecological Commitment
RECOSI isn’t just about business; it’s about making a positive social and ecological impact. As a social franchise, it supports sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for people with disabilities, fostering meaningful work that benefits communities. Ecologically, the company champions the refurbishment industry, which is on the rise for good reason. Giving IT equipment a second life reduces e-waste and lessens the environmental footprint of producing new devices. It’s a win-win: customers get affordable tech, and the planet gets a break from unnecessary waste.
Working Towards a Circular Economy
The circular economy is at the heart of RECOSI’s mission. The idea is simple but powerful: keep resources, materials, and products in use for as long as possible to minimize waste. This approach mimics natural cycles, where nothing goes to waste. In the context of IT and electronics, this is especially important because producing one computer requires a whopping 1.8 tonnes of raw materials, chemicals, and energy. By refurbishing and reusing IT equipment, RECOSI helps reduce the demand for new raw materials and energy, contributing to climate targets and a more sustainable future.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – promoting sustainable employment opportunities.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – fostering innovation in IT reuse and refurbishment.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – bridging the digital divide by providing access to technology for marginalized groups.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – encouraging reuse and reducing e-waste.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – contributing to climate targets by minimizing resource extraction and waste.
Bridging the Digital Divide
At its core, RECOSI is about more than just technology—it’s about access and inclusion. By offering professional-grade refurbished IT equipment at low costs, the project helps non-profit organizations and low-income groups gain access to technology that might otherwise be out of reach. This not only saves money but also opens doors to education, employment, and social participation. The technology access scheme ensures that those who need it most can qualify for these resources, making a real difference in communities that face digital exclusion. It’s a practical step toward a more equitable digital future.
