Electronic waste, or e-waste, is one of the fastest growing sources of waste in the world today, with approximately 31 million tonnes of it produced by the UK each year¹. E-waste can refer to any electronic device that is no longer in use or has been discarded, such as televisions, tablets, smartphones, kitchen equipment, washing machines and more. With constant upgrades available for every type of electronic device and appliance you can think of, we are often pushed as consumers to have the latest version of everything, which is not only expensive and unnecessary, but also very unsustainable.

Why Should We Recycle E-Waste?
One of the main problems with e-waste is that it is very often not recycled or disposed of correctly, and as a result, it is likely to end up in a landfill. E-waste is filled with toxic materials such as lead, mercury and cadmium, and if the contents leach into the soil or find their way into water systems, they can severely affect the surrounding environment. Some of the components can take up to 1-2 million years to decompose, which means that your e-waste may still be around to pollute the earth 40,000 generations from now ¹.

If e-waste is recycled properly, many of the components can be reused for other products, which prevents the need for further mining and increases the sustainability of producing new electronics. Currently, however, the majority of electronics that are repurposed are often shipped to developing countries in large quantities where they are dismantled in ways that are harmful to the environment and to the workers handling them.

How Can I Recycle E-Waste?
If you are thinking of discarding that old television or smartphone, ask yourself, 'Do I really need this upgrade?' Most of the e-waste produced in the UK comes from items that are still useable but have been disposed of in favour of the latest version. Electronics or appliances in good condition can be re-gifted to friends or family or donated to a local charity.

Before you rush to replace a slightly damaged computer or gadget, consider having it repaired instead. Alternatively, you might also be able to sell it at a local electronics shop for parts.

If the item simply cannot be reused, look online to find a dedicated e-waste facility that recycles the specific product you want to dispose of. Because of the sheer variety of e-waste that we produce, not every facility will accept certain appliances, such as microwaves or refrigerators. You can also check with the manufacturer if it can be returned to them, as some companies have a process in place for recycling used electronics.

Author: Shirley Carruthers - Content Creator at ParkerSteel

References:
1.) cleanipedia.com/how-to-recycle-electronics-a-guide-to-sustainable-electronic-waste-disposal