How can we implement a device recycling and refurbishing program in Hamilton?
Project Description:
The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the digital divide that many communities face as school, work, and socializing have become increasingly reliant on access to the internet. This digital divide has 3 components – 1) lack of available connectivity; 2) access to devices; 3) training and education for the user of devices. In collaboration between City of Hamilton and Redeemer students, we are looking for students to focus on component #2 and explore opportunities for device repurposing in the City of Hamilton for those in need. Some of the questions that need to be addressed:
Are there other municipalities that we can look to for innovative solutions or who have implemented device recycling and refurbishing programs?
What are some of the existing programs and models used to support device collection, configuration and distribution of devices in Canada/Ontario/Greater Toronto Area?
Are there any current programs in Hamilton and can they be increased or expanded in capacity?
What is the typical program cost to delivery, including staffing models, licensing, space utilization/storage of devices, collection, refurbishment and distribution?
Where does the funding typically come from and how can the sustainability be ensured?
What is a typical timeline to setup a program?
Device collection options – “in-need” vs “not-in-need” devices as well as options to dispose the “not-in-need” devices properly.
What are the government regulations and laws around data privacy and how do the organizations running the program ensure those are being met?
Suggestions on Hamilton specific models based on interviews with existing subject matter experts and previous program owners who ran similar programs in the city.
Is there a specific criterion for eligibility and partner organizations within Hamilton that would need to be aware of the program to connect those in need with devices? If yes, what is that criterion?
What were the successes and learning opportunities from the programs that are no longer running but existed previously (in Ontario/Hamilton specifically)?
What are the challenges being faced by the current programs (in Ontario/Hamilton specifically)?
Is there an opportunity to ask Hamilton institutions to consider alternative solutions to dispose of their technology? If yes, what are those alternative solutions?
Challenge Summary:
How can we increase device recycling options in the City of Hamilton?
Deliverables:
Primary research - Interviews with previous program implementation teams
Secondary research - Review of past and existing device recycling programs, implementation efforts and barriers
Business case - Suggestions for program and implementation efforts for identifying, collecting, refurbishing, storing, and distributing recycled devices in the City of Hamilton
City Staff: Jasleen Arora, Senior Project Manager, City of Hamilton
Faculty & Course: Jim Vanderwoerd, Redeemer University, Professor of Social Work, Core Capstone - CTS410A
