AWS wants to give old datacenters a second life with new recycling and repair facilities

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AWS will reuse data center components

Data center racks with cables and servers
Inside a data center where storage servers populate dozens of racks (Image credit: Old Source)

Amazon has expanded its reverse logistics operations in Europe with its re:Cycle Reverse Logistics facilities in Dublin, Ireland, with the aim of extending the life of data center equipment and reducing its environmental impacts.

The facilities, which handle the testing, repairing and repurposing of hardware from AWS data centers, are part of the company’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

By investing in a circular economy, Amazon hopes to eliminate unnecessary waste to reduce its operational carbon footprint as well as its reliance on manufactured goods.

Make data centers more eco-friendly

Recyclable and reusable elements include processor chips, RAM and network cards, which feature high-value materials. The Dublin factory employs robotics and specialized machines to recover precious metals like gold and silver.

Specialized trolleys at the plant, powered by robots, can more up to two tonnes of equipment. Amazon also uses bespoke machines and other processes to extract valuable materials.

Besides hi-tech solutions, Amazon claims to have created over 850 jobs in Ireland, employing a wide range of individuals and budding tech sector workers.

“We need to work together to ensure that products, whatever their shape or form, are kept in use for as long as possible through smart design, repair and reuse," noted Leader of the Green Party and Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman.

Besides recovering value from decommissioned equipment, Amazon’s three-pronged approach to promoting a circular economy in its data centers includes designing reusable and lower carbon rack systems from the outset and keeping equipment operating efficiently.

Already, Amazon claims that its reverse logistics programme diverted 14.6 million hardware components from landfills globally in 2023.

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Craig Hale
Craig Hale

With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!