Posted on 23/06/2020

How to Reduce Electronic Waste

If you are like most Britons, you probably don’t know what to do with that drawer full of old electronics you won’t use any more. We all accumulate more e-waste that we can handle and this has become a major problem for the last decade. We should make an effort to reduce the amount of e-waste that is sent to the landfills. E-waste disposal will become a more serious problem with the development of technology. When electronic waste goes into local landfills, it puts our soil, air and waterways at risk because the majority of consumer electronics such as phones, computers and TVs contain harmful chemicals and toxic materials like lead, mercury, and other heavy metals.


More than 70% of the small electronic goods can be recycled, recovering items such as steel, plastic, aluminium, gold, silver, copper, and other metals that can be given a new lease of life – either reprocessed or taken apart to be utilised in new products. Companies that produce electronic devices should focus on e-waste recycling because their products pollute the environment. We all need to find a way to reduce e-waste because we all contribute to global warming and the environmental pollution. Here you can find useful tips on how to minimise e-waste at home.


1. Organise what you have

Declutter your home and get rid of the gadgets that you won’t need any more. E-waste removal can take time especially if you have a lot of old TVs and computer monitors to dispose of. Hire a rubbish removal company that specialises in e-waste clearance and your problem will be solved. These companies recycle the waste they collect so you will do your bit for the environment by hiring the pros.


2. Learn more about your local e-waste disposal options

If you don’t want to hire a professional company you can use your car to transport the small electronic items to the nearest recycling centre. Keep in mind that you will have to pay a small fee to dispose of e-waste in the eco-friendly way. If you have large and bulky items you will have to hire a van but this can cost you more than hiring a professional waste removal company. Consider your options before disposing of your e-waste.


3. Take them back to the store

These days, the majority of stores are investing in recycling programs. If want to make a new purchase at a store, ask them if they will take your old camera, TV, laptop or any other electronic goods. This way you will not create clutter in your home and will easily get rid of unwanted items.


4. Give away your e-waste

If you do not need your electronic equipment, you can donate it to charity. The electronic items you want to donate need to be reusable and in good condition. If you have items that are not worth donating you should let the rubbish removal company handle them.


The problem with e-waste recycling is complex. It’s caused by a combination of issues – low public awareness of which electronic goods can be recycled and how and a lack of a strong international e-waste recycling infrastructure. If you want to live in a healthier environment you need to educate yourself and start spreading the word that recycling is important.