Why schools are better off choosing refurbished IT

In recent years, Flanders invested over €375 million in the Digisprong programme, providing laptops to students. Most of these devices were brand-new. But many are now becoming outdated: in practice, school laptops last about three to four years with intensive use. Meanwhile, the subsidies have run out, and schools are facing tight budgets, limited IT support and little maintenance planning.

Primary schools are not allowed to ask parents for extra contributions, and secondary schools can only do so in a limited way. A major replacement wave is coming, without the government funding that was available during Digisprong.

New laptops are expensive and have a significant environmental footprint. Their production relies on scarce raw materials, often sourced from conflict regions or via polluting mining operations. At the same time, the demand for digital infrastructure in schools keeps growing, while available resources are shrinking. As a result, many schools are looking for a more affordable and sustainable alternative.

Refurbished laptops are professionally renewed devices that function like new. They cost up to 70% less than brand-new models, can still last three to five years, and are perfectly suited for school tasks like word processing, browsing and using digital learning platforms.

A key advantage: many refurbished laptops come from corporate leasing programmes. These business-grade devices are often more robust than low-end consumer models. They have stronger casings, durable keyboards and more reliable components — offering better quality at a lower price.

The environmental gain is also significant: reuse can avoid up to 28% of additional CO₂ emissions. And research shows that properly refurbished laptops are just as reliable as new ones — provided they come from a trusted, professional supplier.

Suppliers like Back in Use work with social enterprises to wipe, inspect and test all devices. This not only extends the life of IT equipment but also creates meaningful employment opportunities. Every laptop is securely wiped, thoroughly tested and delivered with at least a one-year warranty.

The Flemish government actively encourages reuse, but many schools still default to buying new out of habit. Yet today, refurbished is often the most logical and feasible choice: more affordable, more sustainable and just as reliable.