Why repair rather than buy new?

Cracked screen, dying battery, temperamental charging port: when our smartphone shows signs of weakness, the first reflex is often to look at the latest models in the shop window. Yet in the vast majority of cases, repair is a much smarter option — for your wallet and for the environment.

The colossal environmental impact of a new smartphone

Manufacturing a smartphone is an extremely resource-intensive process. According to ADEME (France's Ecological Transition Agency), producing a single smartphone generates around 70 kg of CO2, equivalent to 500 km by car. And this figure only accounts for manufacturing, not transport or end of life.

A smartphone contains over 50 different metals, including rare earth elements extracted in conditions often disastrous for the environment and local populations. Tantalum, cobalt, lithium, indium: these resources are limited and their extraction leaves lasting scars on ecosystems.

By choosing to repair rather than replace, you avoid the production of a new device and all the associated pollution. A simple battery or screen change extends your phone's life by 2 to 3 years, representing a considerable saving in carbon footprint.

The growing problem of electronic waste

Every year, the world produces over 50 million tonnes of electronic waste (e-waste). France alone generates around 800,000 tonnes per year. And smartphones represent a significant share of this waste.

Less than 20% of this waste is properly recycled. The rest ends up in landfill, often in developing countries, where toxic substances (mercury, lead, cadmium) contaminate soil and groundwater. By extending the lifespan of your devices, you directly contribute to reducing this scourge.

Repairing costs much less than buying new

Let's compare the figures. A new mid-range smartphone costs between 300 and 600 euros. A high-end model easily exceeds 1,000 euros. In contrast, the most common repairs are significantly more affordable.

• Battery replacement: 30 to 80 euros depending on model

• Screen replacement: 80 to 250 euros depending on model

• Charging port repair: 40 to 90 euros

• Speaker replacement: 30 to 60 euros

Even the most expensive repair — a screen change on a recent iPhone — remains two to three times cheaper than buying an equivalent new phone. And your repaired device keeps all your data, configured apps and habits.