Our Approach

Social, economic, and political developments are changing how Europe thinks about ICT. Repair, reuse, resource efficiency, digital resilience, and strategic autonomy are now closely connected. Free ICT Europe brings the experience of the independent ICT aftermarket directly into these discussions.

Our approach is constructive and evidence-based. We inform, influence, and engage policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders to demonstrate how independent maintenance, refurbishment, and resale support Europe’s broader economic, environmental, and digital ambitions.

Redefining ICT Sustainability

ICT sustainability is about more than reducing energy consumption. It also means retaining the value already embedded in equipment, extending functional lifecycles, and reducing demand for critical raw materials. Achieving this requires an open, competitive market rather than closed ecosystems controlled by individual manufacturers.

Independent service providers bring essential expertise in repair, maintenance, upgrading, refurbishment, and resale. European policies, legislation, and market practices should enable these businesses to operate fairly—protecting the freedom of users and owners to choose how their ICT assets are maintained and managed.

How We Drive Change

As the united voice of the independent ICT aftermarket, we:

  • Engage with EU Institutions: Build direct relationships with Members of the European Parliament, the European Commission, and relevant European authorities.
  • Advocate with Evidence: Promote the economic, environmental, and strategic value of the ICT aftermarket through research, data, and hands-on industry expertise.
  • Shape Policy & Legislation: Actively participate in European policy frameworks, legislative consultations, and regulatory processes.
  • Provide Expert Research: Contribute practical market knowledge to European research bodies, including the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC).
  • Build Strategic Alliances: Partner with industry associations, sustainability advocates, and consumer rights organizations that share our objectives.
  • Bridge the Gap: Connect policymakers directly with the businesses, engineers, and market experts affected by ICT lifecycle policies.
  • Collaborate Globally: Coordinate on international secondary-market challenges and supply chain issues that extend beyond European borders.