B&O Pioneer of Circular Electronics

Shortly after releasing the first ever C2C Certified® speaker (and consumer electronics product), Bang & Olufsen strikes again, with two more certified products. The high-end consumer electronics brand centers its strategy on designing for longevity.

Bang & Olufsen's award-winning products, pioneers in their sector for sustainability and circularity, feature modular design and allow for easy upgrades and repairs, significantly extending their lifespan. The Beosound Level speaker was among the first products ever to receive C2C Certified® in 2021 according to the most rigorous Version 4.0 of the standard.

After the release of another C2C Certified® speaker in 2023, the Beosound Emerge, 2024 has seen a third speaker of the Bang & Olufsen collection achieve Cradle to Cradle Certified® Bronze Version 4.0: the Beosound A5.

A Shift Towards Longevity in Consumer Electronics

In a market plagued by decreasing product lifespans and planned obsolescence, Bang & Olufsen takes a different approach. Committed to creating durable, high-quality products, the company aims to certify at least 10 of its products by June 2025, setting a new standard in the consumer electronics industry for sustainability and circularity.

Why Product Longevity Matters

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions starts with extending the life of electronics. According to studies, the carbon footprint from electronic waste is surging, and extending product lifetimes by even 50% could halve emissions. With this in mind, Bang & Olufsen has set ambitious climate goals, targeting net-zero emissions in operations by 2027 and across their value chain by 2040.

Expert Support in Achieving Certification

Vugge til Vugge, as the assessment body, played a crucial role in guiding Bang & Olufsen through the C2C Certified® certification process. Annette Hastrup, Founder and Owner of Vugge til Vugge, shared:

"It's inspiring to see a leading brand like Bang & Olufsen embrace circular design and commit to the Cradle to Cradle Certified® framework. Their focus on product longevity and sustainability sets an important example in the consumer electronics industry, driving positive change for both the market and the environment."

Rigorous Assessment for a Trusted Certification

To achieve the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Bronze level, the Beosound speakers were evaluated on five key sustainability criteria:

1. Material Health: Prioritizing safe, non-toxic materials.

2. Product Circularity: Designing for reuse, repair, and recycling.

3. Clean Air & Climate Protection: Minimizing carbon emissions.

4. Water & Soil Stewardship: Reducing environmental impact in production.

5. Social Fairness: Promoting ethical practices across the supply chain.

Bang & Olufsen's certifications are a testament to their dedication to creating responsible products that meet rigorous sustainability standards, demonstrating a path forward in designing electronics for a circular economy.

Read more: https://bang-olufsen.presscloud.com/digitalshowroom/#/pressreleases/130971284253994