The Samsung Galaxy Upcycling program allows Galaxy phone owners to retrofit the hardware and software of antiquated, used Galaxy phones into new technology products such as closed circuit TVs, gaming consoles, and IoT devices. The program puts the tools for transforming devices into new technology in consumers’ hands by providing them with the necessary software changes and suggested hardware changes that enable new functionality. The program was created from the company’s innovation hub, C-Lab, and will launch in 2018.

“The Galaxy Upcycling program provides an innovative and environmentally responsible approach to consumers who want to repurpose their existing technology to have new and differentiated functionality,” said Michael Lawder, Senior Vice President of Customer Care at Samsung Electronics America. “We’re honored to receive this award for our Galaxy Upcycling program and for our continuous efforts in sustainability throughout the product lifecycle.”

This is the second time in 2018 that the Galaxy Upcycling program has been recognized in the U.S. for its innovative re-use and recycling efforts. In January, the Galaxy Upcycling program received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Cutting Edge Champion Award.

The Environmental Leader Awards recognizes companies that provide innovative technology and solutions to sustainability and environmental problems. In addition, Dr. Dochul Choi, Senior Vice President of R&D at Samsung Electronics America, was honored as a Top 75 2018 Environmental Leader for his efforts in driving sustainability management. The awards were presented yesterday in Denver, CO at a ceremony during the Environmental Leader & Energy Manager Conference.

Source: Newsroom Global

More information about Samsung’s sustainability initiatives can be found at https://news.samsung.com/us/sustainability/.

What is Upcycling?

Upcycling is the process of finding new and useful applications for old items or devices.

Why is it Important?

According to the 2017 Global E-waste Monitor, nearly 45 million metric tons of e-waste is discarded annually. Finding innovative ways to repurpose older devices will save more tech from ending up in landfills, conserve considerable amounts of resources, and ultimately create a more sustainable future.

What Does Samsung’s Program Do?

Headquartered in Seoul, the Galaxy Upcycling team explores simple, ‘do-it-yourself’ ways for people to repurpose older Galaxy devices. Over the past year, the team has taken the show on the road, helping others learn how to conveniently connect their old devices to everyday household objects via the Internet of Things (IoT).

What are Some of Their Solutions?

One fun example of the team’s solutions is their Smart Fish Tank Monitor, which enables you to instantly feed your fish and turn on the aquarium light via text message. Another, the Smart Pet Bowl, helps on-the-go pet owners feed their furry little friend, and even snaps a photo of the pet eating that owners can view on their phone.

Additional Images:

Passionate about the environment, the Galaxy Upcycling team finds ingenious ways to repurpose old Galaxy smartphones instead of throwing them out

Galaxy devices are equipped with many useful parts such like cameras and network modules, giving them the power to transform normal devices into connected ones

The Smart Fish Tank monitors various factors in the fish tank and also enables users to feed the fish or turn on an aquarium light by text message

The Smart Pet Bowl takes advantage of the old phone’s plastic packaging and enables pet parents to feed their cats on the go.

The Smart Pet Bowl can even send pictures to the user when the pet eats from the bowl

Galaxy Upcycling solutions were exhibited at Samsung Developer Conference 2017, encouraging visitors to think twice before throwing out smart devices

Source: Newsroom Global