eBay, a Recommerce Pioneer, is Driving the Circular Economy

As the original online marketplace, eBay’s commitment to recommerce is built into our company’s DNA.

By making it easier for Americans to sell used goods, ranging from clothing to cookware, as well as parts and components that can extend the life of appliances, automobiles and technology, eBay has helped to keep thousands of tons of waste out of landfills.

In 2022 alone, the re-selling of used goods on eBay prevented 1.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions — roughly the same as shutting off energy to more than 200,000 homes — and 73,000 metric tons of waste.

To drive those numbers even higher, we’re investing in new programs that will make recommerce even more popular and further bolster the circular economy.

Restoring Used Goods

The eBay Refurbished program sells used products that have been repaired or reconditioned to 100% functionality by experts or, in some cases, the original manufacturer. Every eBay Refurbished product comes with a minimum one-year warranty.

Restoring products requires less energy than producing new goods, so the program reduces greenhouse gas emissions by cutting energy use and preventing items from ending up in landfills.

In 2022, sales of refurbished smartphone on eBay avoided 19,800 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, the equivalent of removing 3,900 cars off the road for a year. 

Providing Consumer Confidence

We want Americans to feel confident when purchasing used items on eBay. That’s why we offer a number of Guarantees, which go beyond our standard Moneyback Guarantee, designed to bolster trust in recommerce:

• Authenticity Guarantee: Products bought through our Authenticity Guarantee program receive a thorough inspection ensuring their legitimacy before they are sent to the seller. 
• Guaranteed Fit: When consumers buy automobile parts from this program, they’re eligible for a full refund if their purchase doesn’t fit their car or motorcycle.
• Verified Condition: Heavy machinery purchased through the Verified Condition program is inspected in-person by an expert. Each listing includes a detailed, multi-point condition report and five-star rating system, so consumers know exactly what to expect from their purchase. If the item arrives not as described, damaged or malfunctioning, the purchase is backed by eBay’s Business Equipment Purchase Protections.

Taken together, these programs mark a significant investment in growing the circular economy by building trust.