International E-waste Day 2022
Today is International E-waste day!
What is International E-waste day?
On the 14th of October each year the WEEE forum powers a movement to encourage businesses and individuals to help tackle the growing issue of E-waste.
This year we join over 160 organisations in sharing this year’s theme ‘Recycle it all, no matter how small’. The focus of International E-Waste Day 2022 will be those small electrical devices that we no longer use but keep in drawers and cupboards or often toss in the general waste bin.
Why is E-waste an issue?
The UK is currently one of the largest producers of household e-waste in the world.
The UN estimated that in 2019, over 22 million tonnes of small e-waste were produced worldwide. This is 40% of the 57 million tonnes of all e-waste arising globally. If the quantity of these small items keeps on increasing at the same rate as total e-waste (around 3% per annum), it will reach 29 million tonnes by 2030!
Why recycle small devices and electronics?
Due to their small size, items such as mobile phones, electric toothbrushes, kitchen equipment, cameras and tablets are often discarded incorrectly, and they make up a significant proportion of the 8% of all e-waste that is thrown in waste bins which is subsequently landfilled or incinerated.
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Small appliances are often easily stored and forgotten about in drawers, cupboards, garages, and attics or lofts. In an average European household, up to 5 kg of e-devices per person is currently hoarded.
What’s the problem with landfill?
When E-waste ends up in landfill toxic substances like lead and mercury can leach into soil and water. Through inhalation, skin exposure, and ingestion, toxins can cause illness which can cause brain damage and even kill those exposed to it.
How can Zixtel Help?
We refurbish as much as we possibly can before recycling is considered but refurbishment and reuse is not always possible. This year we have heavily invested in our recycling plant to further increase our recycling capabilities. We can now recover and segregate a very high percentage of all precious metals contained within E-waste meaning the materials can be repurposed and reintroduced to the economy.
Is my E-waste worth anything?
Absolutely! We will offer rebates on a wide variety of electronics and materials including your small devices. Email us recycling@zixtel.com for a no obligation offer today.
