Circular consumer electronics
Project: Hune
Client: Grupo Ikikai
Location: Argentina, México
Year: 2021 / 2024
Materials: Recycled ABS, recycled PET, recycled TPE
Keywords: Product design, electronics, circular design, Climate Neutral Certification
Why?
The consumer electronics sector is one of the largest contributors to household waste due to increasing consumption of short-lifecycle products and the lack of proper end-of-life solutions.
Globally, only 17% of e-waste is officially collected and recycled, according to the UN’s Global E-Waste Statistics Partnership. This means that over 80% of electronic waste is discarded without trace, resulting in the loss of valuable materials and the release of toxic substances into the environment.
What?
In collaboration with Hune’s R&D team, we have developed a product line that integrates environmental and social criteria. The range includes a Bluetooth speaker, earphones, and various types of cables and chargers, all made with 100% post-consumer recycled plastic in their casings and sheathings.
Hune's product line integrates ecodesign strategies across the entire life cycle to minimize environmental impact. These include the use of certified recycled plastics, the design of more durable electronics, and packaging solutions that reduce waste. Packaging was developed with compact dimensions, using FSC-certified cardboard printed with plant-based inks, and designed without plastics, varnishes, or glues to ensure recyclability at the product’s end of life.
Traceability is ensured through GRS certification, and all suppliers comply with BSCI standards for social responsibility.
In 2024, Hune obtained the Climate Neutral Certification for the second time—an achievement that reflects the brand’s measurable progress in reducing its carbon footprint and its commitment to long-term climate goals.
For each product, we developed a Product Impact Report (PIR) that clearly outlines the environmental benefits achieved through specific design and material choices. For example, the carbon footprint of producing the casings and sheathings is reduced by 81% to 94% compared to standard products, thanks to the use of recycled plastics.
HOW?
We have been supporting Hune since 2021—firstly to develop a range of products that integrate environmental and social criteria throughout the value chain, and secondly to help them obtain certifications, participate in sustainability competitions, and communicate their progress transparently.
Throughout this collaboration, we have worked closely with Hune’s internal R&D team to apply ecodesign strategies—enhancing product durability and circularity, and optimizing packaging for maximum recyclability. We also contributed to supplier and material selection, distribution processes, and the design of end-of-life collection systems.
Hune promotes circularity by partnering with local recyclers and offering customers a collection service for unused electronics—not limited to Hune products—helping ensure proper e-waste treatment.
In 2024, we supported Hune in obtaining the Climate Neutral Certification for the second time. This label, granted by The Change Climate Project, recognizes brands that demonstrate a real commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and that implement action plans to achieve medium-term climate goals.
