How can you make a difference?

E-waste – The Facts:

Despite the fact that most e-waste can be reused or recycled, the reality is that the majority of it still ends up in landfill. Consumer demand for the latest gadgets, PC’s, laptop’s and tablet’s shows no sign of slowing down and as technology advances at such a fast rate this will inevitably add to the enormous issue of electronic waste.

Is it really that bad?

The effects of e-waste on the environment, and potentially to human health are massive. In 2016, 44.7 million tonnes of e-waste was generated worldwide. Of  this number less than 30% was recycled. By 2021, this number is expected to hit over 52 million tonnes. Toxic chemicals from e-waste that are sent to landfill may leach into the land and ground water system which could cause serious damage to the environment. It is also estimated based on current government figures that in less than 12 years the UK will have used all available landfill space, which poses the question: what happens to our waste then?

                                                                                {figures provided by The Environment Agency,U.K Government – http://bit.ly/2FP }                      

                                                                                                                    {figures provided by the  ITU, UNU and the ISWA}

The solution

Making a commitment to recycle all your obsolete electronics will play a vital role in tackling the e-waste issue. By recycling it instead of just throwing it into the bin or local rubbish tip, you are also ensuring that your data is securely wiped, removing any chance of your personal information being stolen. It’s not just PC’s, Laptop’s and mobile phones that can be recycled from the home, the following can also be sent for electronic recycling:

• Tablets
• Games Consoles
• Internet Routers/Modems
• Keyboards and Mice
• Cables
• Smart Devices
• Printers

To protect your data and to ensure all your ICT equipment is disposed of in the right way, it is important you recycle your electronics with a company that is registered with The Environment Agency and has licenses to carry and dispose of electronic waste. Above all they should work to the WEEE Directive, GDPR and be ethical in all they do.

If you are a member of public wishing to dispose of 1 or a few items then please contact and visit your local recycling centre.

If you or your business has over 15 complete items including all equipment bearing data then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today on 0161 637 5656

Happy Recycling!