Amazon has expanded its European reverse logistics programme through re:Cycle Reverse Logistics, which operates facilities in Dublin that test and repair equipment from AWS data centres. The facilities extend the life of data centre hardware and other electronics so they can be reused.
► Bespoke machinery is used to recover precious metals
► 14.6 million hardware components globally diverted from landfill last year
The circular economy initiative will support Amazon’s path to net-zero, as it means fewer new components will need to be produced, saving raw materials and energy. While the operation is predominantly focused on reuse, where waste is generated, zero waste goes to landfill, but instead sent for ‘high-end’ recycling.
When server racks are decommissioned, customer data is removed through a secure process. Bespoke machinery is used to recover precious metals, like gold and silver, found in circuit boards and computer components.
As well as recovering value from decommissioned equipment, AWS designs rack systems to be re-usable from the outset and keeps equipment operating as efficiently as possible. Through reverse logistics partners, AWS optimises re-use across its data centres, taking decommissioned equipment from one facility and redeploying it elsewhere, where possible. If equipment cannot be re-used by AWS or sold on the second-hand market, then precious metals and critical raw materials are recovered and sent for recycling.
As a direct result of AWS’s reverse logistics programme in 2023, 14.6 million hardware components globally were diverted from landfills by being recycled or sold into the second-hand market for reuse.
The re:Cycle Reverse Logistics facilities in Dublin, together with AWS's manufacturing sites where servers are assembled, have created over 850 jobs in Ireland to date. Reducing carbon is a priority for Ireland, which plans to halve emissions by 2030.
