Category: Computer Recycling

Recycle IT

Tablets – Recylce IT Safely

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic Equipment, Family, IT EquipmentLeave a comment

Why Is It So Important to Recycle Old Tablets Safely?

Have you ever found an old tablet hidden in a drawer? Maybe it’s cracked, doesn’t hold a charge anymore, or has been replaced by a newer device. Many kids and teens have old tablets lying around at home. It might seem easy to throw them in the bin or forget about them, but recycling old tablets safely is actually very important.

So, why does it matter? Let’s find out!

Tablets Can Be Recycled Safely
Children’s Tablet – Can be Recycled

Tablets Contain Valuable Materials

A tablet may look like just a piece of plastic and glass, but inside it are many useful materials. Tablets contain metals like gold, silver, copper, and aluminium. These materials are valuable and can be reused to make new devices.

If old tablets are thrown away, these precious resources are wasted. Mining for new materials takes a lot of energy and can damage the environment. By recycling tablets, we can recover these materials and use them again instead of digging up more from the Earth.

Think of recycling as giving your old tablet a second life!

Electronic Waste Is a Growing Problem

Electronic waste, often called e-waste, is one of the fastest-growing types of rubbish in the world. Every year, millions of phones, tablets, computers, and other gadgets are thrown away.


Electronic Equipment for Recycling

When too much e-waste ends up in landfills, it creates huge environmental problems. The more devices people throw away, the more space is needed for rubbish dumps, and the more natural resources are used to make replacements.

By recycling your old tablet, you become part of the solution. Even one tablet recycled properly can make a positive difference.

Old Tablets Can Contain Harmful Materials

Some parts inside electronic devices contain materials that should not be left in ordinary rubbish bins. If tablets are damaged or broken down in landfills, certain substances can leak into the soil and water.

This pollution can harm plants, animals, and even people. Clean water and healthy soil are important for everyone, and safe recycling helps protect both.

When old tablets are taken to proper recycling centres, experts know how to handle these materials safely and responsibly.

Your Personal Information Needs Protection

Here’s something many people forget: old tablets can still contain personal information.

Even if you stopped using your tablet months or years ago, it may still store:

  • Photos
  • Videos
  • Passwords
  • Messages
  • Email accounts
  • Game information
  • School projects
  • Personal notes

Throwing a tablet away without clearing the data can put your privacy at risk. Someone else might be able to access information you thought was deleted.

Safe recycling means taking a few important steps first:

  1. Back up anything you want to keep.
  2. Sign out of your accounts.
  3. Delete your files and photos.
  4. Perform a factory reset.
  5. Take the tablet to a trusted recycling centre.

Protecting your personal information is just as important as protecting the environment.

Recycling Helps Fight Climate Change

Making new electronic devices requires factories, transportation, and mining. All of these activities use energy and produce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.

Climate Change – Click to Enlarge

Recycling old tablets reduces the need to make everything from brand-new materials. Reusing metals and parts saves energy and lowers pollution.

You may think one old tablet won’t make much difference, but imagine millions of people safely recycling their devices. Together, small actions can have a huge impact on our planet.

Recycling Teaches Responsibility

Taking care of old electronics teaches an important lesson: our choices matter.

Being responsible doesn’t only mean cleaning your room or doing homework. It also means thinking about how your actions affect the world around you.

When you recycle your tablet safely, you show that you care about:

  • The environment
  • Wildlife
  • Natural resources
  • Other people
  • Your personal information

These are habits that can last a lifetime.

You Can Help Create a Circular Economy

A circular economy is a system where products and materials are reused instead of thrown away.

Imagine if every old tablet was simply dumped in the rubbish. We would constantly need new materials and create more waste. But if tablets are recycled, many of their parts can be reused to create new products.

It’s like turning old Lego pieces or now old plastic bottles into a brand-new creation instead of throwing them away.

Circular Economy – Click to Enlarge

The goal is to keep materials in use for as long as possible. Safe recycling helps make this happen.

What Should You Do With an Old Tablet?

If you find an old tablet at home, here are some smart steps to follow:

  • Ask a parent or guardian for help.
  • Save any important files.
  • Remove personal information.
  • Reset the device to factory settings.
  • Take it to an approved electronics recycling centre or trade-in programme.

Never throw tablets into ordinary household bins.

Every Action Counts

You don’t have to be an environmental scientist to make a difference. Small actions from kids and teens can lead to big changes.

Recycling old tablets safely helps protect nature, saves valuable resources, keeps harmful materials out of the environment, reduces pollution, and protects your private information.

The next time you see an old tablet gathering dust in a drawer, remember that it still has value. Instead of treating it like rubbish, give it a chance to be recycled properly.

By making smart choices today, you can help create a cleaner, safer, and greener future for everyone. And that’s something worth tapping into! You can learn more about computer usage and recycling here.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not-for-profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop-off service for all types of waste electrical, electronic and metal items. Recycle IT offer drop-off and collection services to both homes and organizations in Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of printers and we can help recycle yours!

Our electrical community collection service is provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

To speak with Recycle IT please call 01 4578321 or email us here

Visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Office Recycling Tips for a Greener Office

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Awards, Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic Equipment, IT Equipment, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Green Office – Home Office – Any Office:

Summer is coming, it’s brighter so may be it’s time to declutter and tidy? With that in mind, please find some recycling tips to stay eco-friendly at work this spring and year round!

As we know, office waste mainly consists of electrical, electronic, cardboard, paper, packaging and food waste, all of which can be reused, recycled or composted. The one type of waste which is most commonly hoarded for disposal later is old, unused or damaged electrical/electronic equipment.

Office Recycling Categories
Office Waste Separation

Some items just appear event! They might include glass or plastic bottles, cans plastic cups, coffee cups, and food trays and wrappers to name a few. These items can all be segregated and recycled in work or you could encourage staff and suppliers to use reusable items which can be collected and reuse. Disposal items arrival and leave quickly, it’s just to make sure they are recycled for good.

The benefits of introducing a program of reducing, reusing and recycling include;

  • Big euro savings in time on waste disposal costs.
  • Boost to staff morale with a focus on reducing, reuse and recycling.
  • Demonstrates the organisation is commitment to the environment.
  • Enhanced public perception of your organization as a green organization.
  • Promotes a green agenda with your trading partners.
  • Offer time and cost saving opportunities to staff.  
  • Relieves workplace anxiety – when you are organised, clean and tidy, anxiety is reduced.
Office Electrons Clear Out – Old Laptop Parts

Below you will find some tips that can be easily implemented and integrated into the day-to-day running of the office and office building. They may result in reduced office supplies usage, time ordering and money spent.

Tips on How to Reduce Office Waste

  1. Buy supplies in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
  2. Create a clear recycling station with labelled bins for paper, plastic, ink, and electronics.
  3. Your workplace should be encouraged to go paperless.
  4. Use digital signatures to avoid printing documents for signing.
  5. Only print if there is a real need for a hard copy.
  6. Meeting clients or colleagues online to save resources. It’s the norm now!
  7. Use e-mail or instant messages to save paper, time and money.
  8. Share team and event calendars.
  9. Draft documents can be reviewed on-screen before emailing.
  10. Reports and presentation should be electronic only
  11. If paper is required, use FSC–certified paper
  12. Research purchasing printers which print double-sided copies only.
  13. Photocopy and print double-sided.
  14. Scrap paper can be used to make note pads to take phone messages.
  15. Introduce a centralized filing system. This reduces multiple files,
  16. Enable the reuse of paper envelopes by putting a label on top of the old address.
  17.  Cut down on excess equipment sitting in the store, going out of date, e.g. electrical and electronic office equipment.
  18. Regularly service equipment, particularly computers, photocopiers, and printers, to prolong their lifespan.
  19. When equipment reaches its end of life use a registered and licensed electrical and electronic recycler to ensure equipment is safely made ready for reuse and recycling.
  20. Employees should regularly empty out their desk and return any unwanted office supplies to the stationery cupboard.
  21. Free or fee-based online newspaper subscription can reduce the amount of paper to be recycled.
  22. Cancel any unwanted magazine or newspaper subscriptions to avoid unwanted waste accumulating.
  23. Reuse binders and file folders.
  24. Office announcements can be posted online, sent via email or posted once in a centralized monitor or TV screen.
  25. Consider renting equipment that you use only occasionally rather than having to store it in the workplace.
  26. Encourage colleagues to bring lunch to work in reusable containers.
  27. Encourage management to have reusable silverware, plates and cups and a small coffee station in the office.
  28. Research and purchase products with less packaging or with no packaging at all.
  29. Install filtered water rather than a water cooler.
  30. Give your team a reusable water bottle.
  31. Offer secure bike parking.
  32. Source used desks, chairs and lockers (if required).
  33. Unplug equipment when not in use or overnight.
  34. Work from home when possible.
  35. Offer unused or surplus items to other organisation for reuse.
  36. Think about how you can have a green work party or events during the year.
  37. Set printers to default to black-and-white to reduce ink usage.
  38. Use refillable ink cartridges instead of single-use ones.
  39. Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting in your workplace
  40. Encourage staff to use reusable coffee cups instead of disposable ones.
  41. Choose rechargeable batteries instead of disposable ones.
  42. Donate or sell old furniture instead of throwing it away.
  43. Track waste and set reduction goals to encourage improvement.
General Office Recycling – Recycle IT 

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2023 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT Approved and Verified

Challenges in Ireland’s Circular Economy and Waste System

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Awards, Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, electrical recycling, Electronic Equipment, IT Equipment, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Overview

You will find some highlights below taken from The Irish EPA Circular Economy Programme – The Driving Force for Ireland’s Move to a Circular Economy published by the Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland in December 2024. The EPA is responsible for compiling national statistics on circular economy activities and the generation and management of waste in
the Republic of Ireland.

Did you know?

Ireland is generating excessive waste, reaching a total of 15.7 million tonnes in 2022. Addressing this requires system-wide change to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. Stronger regulation, incentives, and enforcement are needed to encourage industry, businesses, and consumers to adopt more sustainable production and consumption practices.

Circular Economy Ireland
Circular Economy and Waste Statistics Highlight Report

Ireland’s circular economy and waste system is underperforming. Progress in reuse and recycling has stalled, municipal recycling targets are likely to be missed, and a consistent three-bin system has yet to be fully implemented. The country remains largely dependent on a linear economy, with persistently high levels of waste generation.

Packaging waste makes up about one-third of kerbside waste from households and businesses. Since 2016, it has increased by over 20%, while recycling rates have declined by 7%. As a result, there is a significant risk that Ireland will fail to meet recycling targets for both general packaging and plastic packaging waste.

Click to Enlarge – Circular Economy and Waste Data Highlights

The construction sector is another major contributor, generating over 8 million tonnes of waste and accounting for around half of domestic natural resource extraction in 2022. Moving toward a circular economy in the built environment will require prioritizing renovations and retrofits, designing buildings and urban spaces with lower carbon materials, and increasing the reuse of construction resources.

Waste treatment capacity in Ireland is also vulnerable due to heavy reliance on other countries. In 2022, over 1.2 million tonnes of municipal waste were exported, alongside substantial portions of hazardous and municipal waste overall, highlighting the country’s dependence on external processing.

Click to Enlarge – Waste Treatment and E
xports

The EPA collects circular economy and waste data from a wide range of sources, including waste operators, collectors, and treatment facilities, as well as local authorities and EPA-licensed facilities.

The full report summarizes all of the EPA’s circular economy and waste statistics data releases published in 2024, covering the 2022 reporting year. For more detailed insights into individual waste streams and the most up-to-date data for Ireland, refer to the Circular Economy and Waste Statistics resources here.

Circular Economy News

In late April 2026, Minister Alan Dillon announces €29 million to support local jobs, reduce waste, and help communities reuse and repair. The funding, provided through the Circular Economy Fund, will support initiatives in every region of the country — from community repair hubs and reuse centres to innovative business projects that cut waste and make better use of materials.

This means more opportunities for people to repair items instead of throwing them away, more affordable second-hand goods, and more local jobs in areas such as repair, refurbishment, and sustainable manufacturing. You will get further details here.

You can learn more about the Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2028 here.

About Recylce IT

Recycle IT is a not-for-profit social enterprise providing a community collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Yearly Recycle IT collect from thousands of organizations in Dublin and surrounding areas. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland, with support from South Dublin County Council, South Dublin Country Partnership, Pobal and the Irish Government.

Recycle IT is authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities in the Eastern Midlands Waste Region.

Recycle IT as a social enterprise is part-funded through the Community Services Programme operated by Pobal. Any income earned is used to finance operations which include the provision of training and employment opportunities.

Recycle IT – Award Winner

Generating Electronic Waste!

On By JMCEIn Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic Equipment, Green Technology, IT Equipment, Social EnterpriseLeave a comment

The Statistics:

Statista reported in 2025, that every person in the world generates on average around 8 kilograms of electronic waste per year worldwide. However, there are significant regional differences, data from the latest E-Waste Monitor shows: Europe leads the way with around 17 kilograms of electronic waste per inhabitant, while each person in Africa generates only 2.5 kilograms.

At the same time, Europe has the highest recycling rate at 43 per cent. Asia and Africa have the most catching up to do, with e-waste recycling rates of 12 and 1 per cent respectively.

Only just under a fifth of the electronic waste generated worldwide is currently officially collected and recycled. The remaining quantities of electronic waste were collected unofficially, partially recycled or disposed of as residual waste and sent to landfill.

Statista E-waste Statistics shared by Recycle IT
Statista E-Waste Generated

This gap between official and unofficial collection and recycling statistics varies greatly between different regions.

Recycle Safely

If you want or need an official collection of waste IT equipment and your located in Dublin, Ireland, Recycle IT can help. Our team can accept all types of IT equipment from homes, businesses, schools, public bodies, charities and community groups, all for safe and authorised recycling.

This includes old computers, laptops, printers, monitors, phones, cables, chargers and other electronic devices. Instead of throwing these items away, Recycle IT makes sure they are handled in a responsible way that protects the environment.

Many electronic devices contain harmful materials like lead and mercury. If these are not disposed of properly, they can damage soil and water. Recycle IT helps prevent this by using approved recycling methods. Their processes follow strict rules and standards to ensure safety and environmental care.

Mixed IT and Electronic Equipment for Recycling - Recylce IT
Mixed IT and Electronic Equipment for Recycling – Recylce IT

Manage Data

Another important benefit is data protection. Old devices often store personal or business information. Recycle IT ensures that all data is securely destroyed before recycling begins. This gives people peace of mind that their information will not be misused.

Recycle IT also helps reduce waste. By recycling materials like metal, plastic, and glass, fewer raw materials need to be taken from the earth. This saves energy and reduces pollution. It also supports a more sustainable future.

The service is simple and convenient. Individuals and businesses can drop off their equipment or arrange collection. Everything is handled professionally from start to finish.

Mixed IT and Electronic Equipment for Recycling - Recylce IT
Mixed IT and Electronic Equipment for Recycling – Recylce IT

In Summary

Recycle IT provides a safe, authorised, and environmentally friendly way to dispose of IT equipment. It protects both people and the planet while making recycling easy for everyone. Click here to see lists and PDF files of what can be recycled safely.

Our community recycling activities help to provide jobs and training through safe e-waste recycling. People learn useful skills, build experiences, work in teams all while protecting the environment. Our team work supports communities across Dublin and surrounding areas, while helping colleagues to grow and develop.

About

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not-for-profit social enterprise established to create employment and promote environmental awareness through recycling and reuse. We work in partnership with WEEE Ireland and are authorized by your local authority to provide electrical, electronic and pure metal recycling collections across Dublin since 2007. Recycle IT are fully compliant for WEEE Recycling with permit details available here.

Recycle IT Logo
Recycle IT Logo

Recycling Office Equipment

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic Equipment, NewsLeave a comment

Recycling Electronic Equipment Safely:

Old office equipment may seem worthless, but it still holds significant reuse and recovery value. Throwing both large and small electronic items into general waste bins has a well-documented negative impact on recycling systems and the environment, and it’s widely discouraged.

Electronic waste (e-waste) often contains hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leak into soil and water when sent to landfill or released into the air when incinerated. At the same time, these devices contain valuable materials like copper, gold, and rare earth elements that are lost when they aren’t properly recycled.

Computers Chassis at Recycle IT
Computer casings for recycling after parts removed

Recycle IT specializes in safe electronic collections and recycling in compliance with the WEEE directive. Whatever your electronic, electrical or pure metal disposal needs, our teams can help you with safe convenient disposal. We follow the principles of, reduce, reuse, recovery and recycle.

At Recycle IT you will find a team that is dedicated, socially driven and environmentally sensible. Our social enterprise specializes in compliant and permitted WEEE recycling and IT disposal, we can be seen daily collecting electronic, electrical and pure metal waste from a range of organizations and properties across Dublin and surrounding areas. Our work helps create real and valuable training and employment opportunities.

The removal of electronic waste comes with many stipulations and guidelines, with which we fully comply. For further details click here

Office Computers for Recycling
Recycle IT – Recycling Cables

Collections

At short notice and within 3 to 6 working days our vehicles equipped with a friendly and reactive team, are available to carry out the collection and recycling of a variety of electronic equipment in our specialist WEEE recycling facility.

All your old office equipment will be safely disposed of. If you have a particular requirement just let us know in advance. We can collect most items from easily accessible locations within your facility and take up a minimum of your time. Old toasters, kettles, cables and computers can be all collected at the same time!

WEEE for Recycling

Waste electrical and electronic equipment recycling includes:

  • Office computer recycling, including safe breakdown & disposal.
  • Server and network equipment recycling.
  • TV/Monitor recycling & disposal.
  • Physical destruction of Hard Drives or sensitive equipment.
  • Laptop and printer recycling & disposal.
  • White goods recycling.
  • Audio goods recycling.
  • Testing and monitoring equipment.
  • Games consoles and electronic toys.

Businesses large and small offices can save time and hassle by engaging a professional, cost-effective reliable recycling service to collect your waste items for safe recycling. This year we have recycled for legal, accounting, bookkeeping, engineering, management, IT, construction and digital marketing services across Dublin.

We offer small businesses the opportunity to drop off free during the year. Keep an eye out for the dates!

Compliant with the Legislation

On removal of WEEE from your organisation, Recycle IT will provide you with documentation including a docket acknowledging the collection. Once the equipment leaves your premises you can be sure it will be dealt with responsibly. If your business needs additional documents for audit or environmental reporting please let us know and we will endeavour to help.

Recycle IT – Mixed WEEE Collection

All of our recycling work is carried out under legislation. Recycle IT is audited at regular intervals. WEEE recycling is carried out as outlined in the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive. You can read more at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website here.

Remember

Recycling electronic office equipment, such as computers, laptops, and servers, is crucial for both environmental and social reasons. In Dublin, our community-based social enterprise play a significant role in safely recycling these items.

When you recycle electronic office equipment, you prevent harmful materials like lead and mercury from contaminating the environment. Instead, these materials can be extracted and reused, reducing the need for mining and minimizing pollution.

IT Equipment for Safe Recycling

Recycle IT as a community-based social enterprises engage people in return to work training set around the recycling process, creating jobs and fostering a sense of environmental responsibility. By supporting this initiative, you contribute to the local economy and help build a more sustainable future for Dublin.

When dropping off your old electronics for recycling, ensure they’re handled by authorised facilities to guarantee proper disposal. Recycle IT offer convenient collections services, making it easy for you to do your part in protecting the environment and supporting your community.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop-off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

21 Recycling Facts – Do more this Year!

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, IT Equipment, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Community Recycling

Every year in Ireland, we support events such as Spring Clean Month, Recycling Week, and Reuse Month. These events help people understand why it is important to recover, reuse, and recycle waste. They give you, your children, family, friends, and coworkers a chance to learn more and take action together in your community to reduce waste.

Recycling helps bring positive change. It encourages people in communities to work together and make a real difference. Recycling is good for the environment, supports community volunteering, and also creates jobs in cities, towns, and villages across Ireland. The more people reuse and recycle, the more benefits everyone gains.

When recyclable items are collected carefully, some of them can be repaired and reused. Others can be taken apart and used as materials to make new products. This process helps create jobs, supports businesses, and strengthens the local economy.

Recycling Plastic Parts Safely

Targets

Ireland is expected to miss its EU recycling targets for 2025. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the country is currently recycling about 42% of municipal waste, which is well below the EU target of 55%.

Recycling rates for packaging are also below the required levels. In 2023, Ireland recycled 59% of packaging waste, while the EU target is 65%. Plastic packaging recycling is even lower, at 30%, compared with the 50% target set by the EU.

Key points about Ireland’s recycling performance include:

  • Municipal waste recycling: Around 42%, which is far below the 55% EU target.
  • Packaging recycling: 59%, compared with the 65% target.
  • Plastic packaging recycling: 30%, well short of the 50% target.

There has been some progress. Ireland introduced the Deposit Return Scheme in 2024, which has helped increase the collection of drink containers such as bottles and cans. Early results show return rates of around 76%, bringing Ireland close to the EU target of 77% for PET bottles.

Plastic Bottles

However, overall recycling levels have not improved significantly in recent years, while the total amount of waste being produced continues to rise.

The EPA estimates that Ireland needs to recycle about 400,000 more tonnes of waste every year to meet EU recycling targets.

Most of these figures are based on 2023 waste data published in 2025, as the full data for 2025 has not yet been finalized.

Electronic and Electrical Recycling

When you think of electronic or electrical waste equipment (WEEE) or e-waste, do you think of items like computers, radios, light bulbs, zip disks, and tapes drives, clock alarms or wall clocks, even cameras, it’s really any items with computerized parts.

These items and similar are adding to an ever-increasing e-waste mountain and the pile usually starts building in people’s homes. We know electrical or electronic items are not recycled as easily or as frequently as other recyclable materials such as paper, glass or plastics. Some of the items are very large and hard to recycle, others are small and have a personal or perceived value so people don’t want to let them go!

Recycle IT Free Drop Off

Sharing Recycling Facts

  1. Most laptop owners replace their device after about three years, while many mobile phones are replaced every two years or even sooner. This creates a lot of electronic waste that needs recycling.
  2. Around 91% of households in Ireland had a computer with internet access in 2019, showing how common digital devices are in everyday life. (Source: Statista Research Department)
  3. Today, about 90% of people in Ireland have access to a smartphone, making it one of the most widely used electronic devices. (Source: Ipsos MORI)
  4. Smartphone ownership in Ireland is near-universal, with approximately 93% – 95% of mobile phone users owning a smartphone., and many checked their phone over 50 times a day and up to 200 times.
  5. A record 62 million tonnes (Mt) of e-waste was produced in 2022, Up 82% from 2010; This is on track to rise another 32%, to 82 million tonnes, in 2030;
  6. Recycling electrical and electronic equipment allows valuable materials to be recovered and reused, helping to support new jobs and industries.
  7. Recycling one million laptops saves enough energy to power about 3,657 homes for an entire year. (Source: How to Save Your Planet One Object at a Time)
  8. Electronic waste can contain more than 1,000 different components, many of which include toxic materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium.
  9. Devices such as computers and televisions often contain small amounts of gold, but it can also be found in mobile phones, game consoles, camcorders, and media players.
  10. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, a single computer can contain about 3.6 kg of lead, which is a toxic metal.
  11. A global survey by Nokia found that 74% of people do not think about recycling their old mobile phones, even though 72% believe recycling helps the environment. Only about 12.7% to 15% of smartphones are actually recycled globally, despite up to 80% of a phone’s materials being recyclable.
  12. Large household appliances, such as washing machines and refrigerators, made up 48% of all waste electrical items collected in Ireland in 2019. (Source: WEEE Ireland)
  13. Devices like computers, laptops, and tablets are difficult to recycle mechanically because they contain many mixed materials and complex components that must be carefully taken apart. (Recycle IT)
  14. WEEE Ireland collected 38,215 tonnes of e-waste in 2024, achieving a 9.5kg per capita recycling rate and exceeding EU targets with a 96% material recovery rate. . (Source: WEEE Ireland)
  15. Irish households disposed of 3.2 million lamps and lightbulbs, 195,000 televisions and monitors, and 13 million small appliances including toys in one year. (Source: WEEE Ireland)
  16. Many electronic devices contain valuable metals such as copper, silver, and gold, which can be recovered through recycling.
  17. Recycling e-waste helps reduce the need for mining new raw materials, which protects natural resources.
  18. When electronic devices are thrown away instead of recycled, hazardous chemicals can leak into soil and water.
  19. Proper e-waste recycling ensures that dangerous materials are safely handled and removed.
  20. Reusing or repairing electronics can extend the life of devices and reduce waste.
  21. Recycling electronics supports the circular economy, where materials are reused instead of thrown away.
Mixed Small Electricals

There are many ways that recycling helps our environment. Why not try to remember and introduce these 5 points.

  • A reduction in landfill and industrial waste by reuse or recycling.
  • Reduced energy usage by reuse or recycling.
  • Less pollution through reuse or recycling.
  • Increased employment by reuse or recycling.
  • Sustainable usage of natural resources by reuse and recycling.

When Irish people wish to make a point, they usually do it well. This needs to be the case with reduce, reuse and recycling

By recycling, your positive actions make you part of the solution rather than part of a global problem. As local communities we must plan and first take steps to reduce the amount of waste and including e-waste that is clogging up our lives .

Making sure that recyclable items such as computers don’t end up in the wrong bin, landfills or illegally dumped is an important step toward green living and environmental conservation for future generation.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not-for-profit social enterprise established to create employment and promote environmental awareness through recycling and reuse. We work in partnership with WEEE Ireland and are authorized by your local authority to provide electrical, electronic and pure metal recycling collections across Dublin since 2007. Recycle IT are fully compliant for WEEE Recycling with permit details available here.

Moving Tips – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!

On By JMCEIn Awards, Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Moving House, Apartment or Office

According to the Central Statistics Office, in 2022, 265,098 people moved home in Ireland, with 29% of movers changing counties and 5% of residents moving to a new property, Dublin city and suburbs was the area with the highest proportion of movers (30%) within or to the area.

Moving home is widely considered one of life’s most stressful experiences. It often appears alongside events like job changes and major life transitions in surveys about stress. There’s a lot to juggle at once — packing, paperwork, deadlines, costs, and the emotional side of leaving a familiar place — so it’s no surprise many people feel overwhelmed.  

They surveyed 2000 people who had moved home over a three year period revealed 61% of those surveyed placed the ordeal at the top of their stress list, so it’s true, moving is stressful. Source: E. ON.

Legal & General conducted a seperate survey related to the motivation and pressure of moving. They report; almost half of respondents (47%) experienced increased stress levels because of moving.  41% of adults experienced anxiety, sleep deprivation (31%) and arguments with their partner (25%). One key stress-inducing factor was time, with 46% of home buyers having to wait between three and five months to complete their move.

Stress Points

Some of that stress might be caused by the fact that removal firms unusually work out the cost for your move by the volume of items that you have to transport to your new location.

Reducing your volume prior to the move should save you money and creates an opportunity to de-clutter through reuse or recycling. In fact, it creates a wonderful opportunity to list and remove items that are broken or unneeded. It’s an excellent motivator to share unwanted items with others or recycle items no longer required.

It’s a good idea to start with storage areas such as the spare rooms, the attic, basement, garage or store in the weeks before your move, as removal teams will want to do a pre-move checklist of your belongings. This helps determine how much stuff needs to be moved and gives an idea of wants involved in moving!

What to Recycle

People are still surprised by the number of objects that can be recycled. Recycling goes way beyond the glass, plastic, paper, and tins that your waste company collects. Commonly recycled items include furniture, clothing, electrical goods, batteries, bulbs, or old toys. home-office equipment, metal cabinets or lockers.  These can all be recycled prior to moving.

2019 moving a cooker
Moving / Recycling Electrical Equipment

Recycled appliances like phones, kettles, cables, dryers, computers, servers or washing machines can be repurposed or their components can be removed and converted into new products.

Recycling allows home movers to clear out old items and reduce the cost of the removal, protect our environment and conserve natural resources. Remember this logic can be applied to moving from any location including an office, warehouse, doctor’s surgery or shop.

10 Moving Tip

Old Storage Heater for Recycling
  1. In the weeks and days leading up to your move, use up perishables including food and cleaning products and recycle plastic containers before your moving date.
  2. All electronics and electrical equipment (e.g. computers, toasters, heaters or kettles) contain some precious metallic elements like gold, silver, copper, and aluminium that can be reused. Recycling these items saves valuable new resources.
  3. Petrol, paint, and oils should be disposed of before moving home. Many removal companies will not move your petrol lawnmower if it is not emptied of all petrol and oil and paint are heavy and will cost you money to move.
  4. Fuel such as coal or oil should be included in the lease, house sale or used well in advance of moving.
  5. Kids’ toys, clothes or bikes can be offered to charity shops, social enterprises, family shelters or housing projects. If damaged they are recycled at civic amenity recycling centres. Some recycling centres accept a range of items manufactured from plastics, metals, and wood.
  6. Following your move, you have lots of packing boxes. The boxes may be supplied by moving company so they can be given back. If not the boxes are most likely to be made from recyclable materials, so they should be able to be added to your paper recycling bin. If you have a large number that will not fit, they can be taken to your nearest civic amenity site.
  7. Take pictures of wire connections on electronic equipment such as computers, printer and wireless router as it will help you set them up at your new home.
  8. Label boxes by room and number them to ensure you have them all on arrival at your house.
  9. Make sure you have lots of help at hand to pack and lift boxes and equipment.
  10. Finally, there may be items that you wish to dispose of but it may not be easy to find a recycler! Here are 10 community-based organizations that can help to reduce your belongings before you move.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not-for-profit, social enterprise established in 2003 to create employment and promote environmental awareness through recycling and reuse. We work in partnership with WEEE Ireland and are authorized by your local authority to provide electrical, electronic and pure metal recycling collections across Dublin since 2007. Recycle IT are fully compliant with WEEE Recycling Requirements and permit details are available here.

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

Sustainable Business Impact Award Winner 2025

 

 

Gaming Consoles – Recycle Safely

On By JMCEIn Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Family, News, Social EnterpriseLeave a comment

Best Selling

Just over 30 years ago, on September 9, 1995, the original PlayStation made its debut in North America, ringing in an era of gaming success for Sony. The chart below from Statista shows, the original PlayStation is the fourth best-selling home console of all time, beaten only by the PlayStation 4, the Nintendo Switch and its own successor, the PlayStation 2, which sold 160 million units over its lifetime. Source: Statista Research Department.

Benefits

Did you know there are benefits to playing videogames? A National Institutes of Health study of nearly 2,000 children found that those who reported playing video games for three hours per day or more performed better on cognitive skills tests involving impulse control and working memory compared to children who had never played video games. Other reported benefits include improved problem-solving skills and logic, increased hand-to-eye coordination, greater multi-tasking ability and faster and more accurate decision-making.

Photo by JESHOOTS.com on Pexels.com

Generally games consoles are devices designed for the sole purpose of playing video games usually at home. A games console is really a computer used to play video or virtual games, on a TV or monitor. Some devices are very portable and are handheld with screens.

Some Facts

Ireland’s total video games revenue was €397m in 2024 and it is expected to reach €503m by 2029. Social and casual gaming (online gaming) totaled €180m in 2024 and will rise to €240m in 2029 with a 5.9% CAGR. A paradigm shift in Ireland’s video games market will come in 2029, when social/casual gaming revenue will overtake traditional gaming (physical gaming on PCs and games consoles)

There are nine console generations, with the current leading providers being Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo with the Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch used to play games like FIFA 22, Farming Simulator 22 and Minecraft. You can also watch Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney Plus on your games console.

Games Console, Controllers and Games – Recycle IT

Games are either downloaded directly onto the device via the internet online store or inserted into the device as a disc or card.

Many game consoles and games are aimed at children There is no official or recommended age for a child to have or use a games console. Video games are given age ratings similar to movies.

In general, using a game console with your children is fun. Adults can refamiliarise themselves with gaming, how new games work and how children are likely to use them. This can be a great way to show responsible and positive use of technology and show your child you are interested in what they do!

Reuse and Repair

After many years of fun, your game’s console may need to be updated with new software or hardware (if possible) or if damaged it can be repaired for reuse. There are several repair options available and they should be considered before saying goodbye to your console.

Saying goodbye isn’t always easy. After all, you likely spent many in-game hours together playing a starring role for your favourite sports team. Your console has likely brought you, your family and friends, many moments of joy and frustration.

However, the time will come to move on to a new console. With new console releases never far away you might consider a replacement. But before you do that, there are some important things that you need to do to stay cyber-safe (and keep your information and payment details safe).

Here are some steps to take before you sell, donate, or recycle your old console:

Games Console and Controller

Today many consoles are backwards compatible. This means that some, or most of the games from your old consoles should work with the new device To save your old games you can back your data up by:

  • Saving your data to an external hard drive.
  • Transferring your data from the old console to the new console by linking via a network.
  • Saving your data to a cloud service for your system.

Your gaming console can have personal information stored. Anything from email addresses to multiple credit card numbers to social media and cloud streaming accounts. If in the wrong hands, this can cause you lots of problems.

You can remove all your accounts from your console. In the setting menu, you can usually delete your credit card information, email addresses, social media links, or linked accounts. For purchased apps, you can sign out and manage your account information in your app settings.

A further option involves resetting the console back to when you first removed it from the box as new. Doing this reset will also make all of the information that was saved inaccessible through the user interface. You can usually do a reset in the settings menu.

Safe Recycling

Now that you have backed up your files and reset your console back to factory settings you may wish to dispose of the device in the waste or recycling bin. Please Don’t

Proper disposal including disposal of cables and chargers is important particularly if you didn’t try the above. Remember is also bad for the environment if you don’t recycle carefully

Games Console

Try the following

  • Reuse your console by gifting it to someone you know.
  • Donate your console to a local youth or community organisation,
  • Resell your device after wiping or destroying the hard disk drive / returning to factory settings.
  • Recycle your console instead of throwing it into the bin.
  • Recycle your console cables and related equipment at the same time!

Because electronics contain many damaging chemicals and reusable parts you should recycle safely at a dedicated e-recycling centre like Recycle IT. If you can’t or don’t wish to wipe the hard disk drive within the console before recycling, Recycle IT can help.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, is an award-winning social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop-off and collection. Recycling services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council.

Recycle IT is supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorised by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across the east midlands waste region.

Our goal is to create training and employment opportunities through the provision of waste management services. Surplus earned income is reinvested in operational, and employment-related costs.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Dublin City Social Enterprise Awardee 2025

Ireland’s Green Tech Revolution: Solar Panels and Vapes

On By JMCEIn Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, News, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Ireland Sees Surge in Electrical Device Sales

Ireland has experienced a notable uptick in the sale of electrical goods, with devices like vapes and solar panels particularly leading the surge. This trend signals a growing appetite among consumers for both convenience gadgets and sustainable technologies.

Photo by Kelly on Pexels.com

Vapes and solar panels have driven a 75 per cent increase in electrical device sales over the last five years and a total of 93 million household electronic items were purchased in 2024 – almost three times the volume sold in 2006 according to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland, the country’s biggest e-waste recycling scheme.

“Each one of those 93 million devices contains valuable materials like aluminium, copper, lithium, cobalt,” said WEEE Ireland chief executive Leo Donovan. Based on the that fact these items should all be recycled safely.

Electric & Green Tech Boom

Sales of solar panels have jumped significantly, reflecting strong interest in home energy solutions—especially across suburban and rural areas. The popularity of smart home accessories, electric vehicle chargers, and battery storage systems is reinforcing Ireland’s move towards greener lifestyles. For example over 2.5 million solar panels have entered the market in the last five years, but with a life of 15 to 20 years, they won’t reach recycling centres for at least another decade.

Disposable Vapes: Convenience at a Cost

Disposable vapes have also seen sharp sales growth, sparking concern among public health and environmental experts. Containing lithium batteries, plastics, and chemical liquids, they pose serious waste challenges if not processed correctly .

Photo by Markus Winkler on Pexels.com

Action Needed Now:

Research from WEEE Ireland also shows the proportion of households hoarding unused devices rose from 22 per cent in 2023 to 29 per cent in 2025, highlighting a massive untapped opportunity for reuse and repair. “We need to move beyond recycling alone. Extending the life of products through repair and reuse must become the norm,” Mr. Donovan said.

The message is simple – take your old gadgets—especially batteries and plastics—to your nearest WEEE or e-waste recycling drop-off in Dublin. It’s quick, local, and significantly reduces pollution.

Recycle IT is a community-based social enterprise in Dublin that helps households, charities, community groups, schools, and businesses safely recycle thousand’s of electrical and electronic items (e-waste) yearly. Here’s how we can help you:

Recycle IT – Electrical Recycling

Services Recycle IT Offers:

Free Household Collection: Our team offer free door-to-door residents association collection of unwanted electrical items like toasters, kettles, laptops, TVs, and more in many Dublin areas.

Business & Organisations Recycling: Schools, offices, and community groups can book collection services for bulk electrical items—ensuring safe and secure disposal.

Drop-Off Recycling: You can drop off items at their facility in Clondalkin if preferred.

Data Destruction: Secure disposal of hard drives and other data-storing devices for privacy protection.

Community Awareness: We promote awareness of e-waste and provide tips on reducing, reusing, and recycling electronic goods.

Environmentally Friendly Practices: Recycle IT recycling for reuse as much as possible helping reduce landfill waste and conserve resources.

Let’s turn this sales surge into a sustainability win for Dublin and beyond!

Recycle IT – Mixed Electrical Equipment

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). During 2018 Recycle IT offer to drop off and collection services to thousands of homes, and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves, cookers, dryers and TVs and much more.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – Approved and Verified

Protect Data and the Planet: Recycle Your Memory Chips

On By JMCEIn Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic Equipment, Social EnterpriseLeave a comment

The Importance of Removing and Recycling Computer Memory Chips Safely

Computer memory chips, like RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash storage, play a crucial role in modern computing by enabling fast data access and system performance. Yet, as technology advances, older computers and memory chips become obsolete, leading to electronic waste (e-waste). Properly removing and recycling these components is essential for environmental protection, resource conservation, and data security.

Internal Computer Memory Chip

In 2021, the global semiconductor industry achieved record sales, totaling $555.9 billion, with approximately 1.15 trillion semiconductor units shipped. Memory chips, including DRAM and NAND flash, are significant contributors to these figures. Source: www.semiconductors.org

1. Environmental Impact of E-Waste

E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, with millions of discarded computers contributing to pollution. Memory chips contain hazardous substances, for example, lead, mercury, and brominated flame retardants, which can leach into soil and water if improperly disposed of in landfills. Additionally, electronic waste incineration releases toxic fumes, contributing to air pollution and harming both human health and ecosystems. Recycling memory chips prevents these hazardous materials from polluting the environment and ensures responsible waste management.

2. Recovering Valuable Materials

Memory chips contain precious and rare materials, such as gold, silver, copper, and palladium. These metals are highly conductive and essential for electronic manufacturing, but they are also finite resources that need extensive mining. Extracting these metals through traditional mining causes deforestation, water contamination, and high carbon emissions. By recycling memory chips, manufacturers can recover these valuable materials and reduce the need for new mining operations, leading to a more sustainable supply chain.

Portable Memory

3. Reducing Electronic Waste and Landfill Overflow

Discarded electronics take up significant space in landfills, where they do not decompose easily. Memory chips and other computer components contribute to this growing problem. Safe removal and recycling help minimize landfill overflow and promote a circular economy where materials are reused rather than discarded. Recycling programs help extend the lifespan of electronic components and reduce the overall waste burden on the planet.

4. Data Security Considerations

Different types of Computer memory store sensitive data, including passwords, personal information, and financial records. If a memory chip is improperly discarded, unauthorized individuals can retrieve and exploit the data. Secure removal and recycling of memory chips make sure that stored information is permanently erased before disposal. Certified e-waste recyclers use specialized techniques, like data wiping and physical destruction, to prevent data breaches and safeguard user privacy.

Memory Cards

5. Economic and Job Creation Benefits

Recycling memory chips and other electronic components contributes to the growing e-waste management industry, creating jobs in recycling centers, refurbishment facilities, and material recovery plants as a Recycle IT.

Some companies refurbish and resell working memory chips, making affordable technology accessible to low-income communities while reducing waste.

Other like Recycle IT operated within a closed loop circular supply chain. As a part funded social enterprise established to offer training and employment opportunities we apply for funds to invest in e-waste recycling projects, further boosting community engagement, economic opportunities and sustainable development.

Memory Card

Finally

Computer memory chips are vital components that should not be discarded carelessly. Safe removal and recycling help protect the environment, recover valuable materials, reduce landfill waste, ensure data security, and promote economic growth. By adopting responsible recycling practices, individuals and businesses can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Recycling initiatives and awareness campaigns are essential in encouraging the proper disposal of electronic waste, making the technology industry more eco-friendly and resource-efficient so please share this blog post with others!

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, are a social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, the Dormant Accounts Fund, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For further details about our services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Irish Social Enterprise Network Members 2025

Electrical Recycling – Do more this year!

On By JMCEIn Awards, Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic Equipment, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Research from WEEE Ireland

WEEE Ireland, Ireland’s large waste electrical compliance scheme says over 15 million small appliances such as coffee makers, calculators, kettles and keyboards were handed back for safe recycling. This is alongside with the equivalent of 66 million used AA batteries which made there back to into the circular economy.

Mixed Cables and Chargers

WEEE figures also reveal that, for every 10 new tech products sold in Ireland, only 4 are eventually coming back for recycling when they become obsolete. Did you know, one in four 18-24-year-olds and one in five aged 35-44 get rid of common household electrical items such as smart watches, earbuds and blue tooth speakers in general waste bins. 

Almost half of Ireland’s small electronics are bought in November and December each year – but data from WEEE Ireland shows only one in three are coming back for recycling.

Mixed Electronic Equipment

The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland figures reveal more than 11 million small electronic items from personal grooming to tech were bought here last year, 4.4 million of them across Black Friday and Christmas.

People’s concerns about personal data are stopping one in five (21%) adults from recycling their unused tech items – while a further 22% of adults keep old technology equipment as backups, new research reveals.

The Empathy Research survey for WEEE Ireland, the largest Irish not-for-profit compliance scheme also found that 12% of people still put small electronic waste items in general household bins. This is truly unbelievable!

Mixed Electronic Equipment

Storing and hoarding

Digital hoarding, e-hoarding, e-clutter, data hoarding, or cyber hoarding are all terms used to describe keeping IT equipment beyond a reasonable time for use.

In Time Magazine Pascal Leroy, director general of the WEEE Forum, a Brussels-based association of global e-waste management organizations, says “It’s really an issue of great concern, this hoarding, and it’s difficult to address because it’s about consumer behaviour—why do people behave the way they do?” says “There is something in us that prevents us from properly disposing of it or properly recycling it.”

Old Electronic Equipment – Home or Office

When you choose to store or hoard older items (no longer used) you are limiting the number of reusable resources available to produce new electronic items. There are lots of components in older equipment that can be reused in the manufacturing of new mobile phones, tablets, or laptops.

For example, the plastic and glass from screens/monitors can be reused, therefore limiting the amount of glass and plastic that is required to create new monitors.

Recycling your old phones, tablets, and laptops with Recycle IT also helps create work experience opportunities and local jobs which is beneficial to the local community.

You can read more about this topic here.

Doing more!

CEO of WEEE Ireland, Leo Donovan, is now urging consumers to dig out old and broken tech and their accessories for recycling, emphasising the straightforward nature of backing up and wiping old devices.

“Most phone and laptop manufacturers have user-friendly instructions on their websites for backing up and deleting data, ensuring that valuable information is not lost or exposed.

Mixed Electronic and Electrical Equipment

“If recycled correctly, these old and broken devices, along with their integrated batteries, chargers and cables, provide a significant source of critical and strategic secondary raw materials,” said Mr Donovan.

Recycling laptop, mobile phones and other household and personal electronic devices help reduce the use of new natural resources.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not-for-profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop-off service for all types of waste electrical, electronic and metal items.

Recycle IT offer drop-off and collection services to both homes and organizations in Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of printers and we can help recycle yours!

If you require data destruction we can offer a cost-effective service to households and organisations. Just email us to find out more.

Our electrical community collection service is provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

To speak with Recycle IT please call 01 4578321 or email us here

Visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT Van 2025

Reduce Clutter This Weekend

On By JMCEIn Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Family, News

Stress and Clutter

Clutter is an overabundance of possessions that collectively create chaotic and disorderly living spaces,” said Joseph Ferrari, a professor of psychology at DePaul University in Chicago.

Decluttering your home, office or business maybe one of your wish list activities or just something you have planned to do for a while but it just has not happened!

Clutter makes it hard to find things while also creating the feeling of limited space. Its believed decluttering your apartment, house and work space improves your living space, your homes appearance and your own mental health.

IMG_20190814_102939 (2)
Mixed IT Clutter – Recycle IT

A study, published in Current Psychology found a substantial link between procrastination and clutter challenges in the age groups; college students, young adults in their 20s and 30s and older adults, mainly in their 50s; so lots of people face clutter challenges and frustration with clutter tended to increase with age. (Source: New York Times, Jan 2019)

Research by Dreamtown in the UK found that the average 10-year-old owns 238 toys but plays with just 12 daily (The Telegraph). The build-up of home clutter including toys, clothes, shoes and even gadgets creates a constant need to tidy up which in turn can create a feeling of stress. Do you recognize the feeling?

The Buildup

Over the course of our lifetime, we will spend a total of 3,680 hours or 153 days searching for misplaced items, something we just stuck in a drawer! The research found we lose up to nine items every day—or 198,743 in a lifetime. Phones, keys, sunglasses, and paperwork top the list (The Daily Mail).

Store Room Clutter
Store Room Clutter – Computers – Monitors – Cables

One of the biggest clutter offenders is mobile phones. Official data from ComReg Ireland published at the end of Q4 2022 shows there were 8.8 million mobile subscriptions in Ireland It’s a fact, that we’re all buying more gadgets with the older or unused items building up in boxes, draws, cabinets, and storerooms.

In Ireland a 2015 study found that on average two in five Irish adults (38%) consider themselves to be hoarders, meaning homes are filling up (Empathy Research)  Further research commissioned by NESTA outlined that 58% of respondents found it hard to get rid of their possessions, meaning they keep them!

The National Association of Professional Organizations shows there is a direct correlation between productivity and clutter. Productivity declines when clutter and chaos rise. Piles of paper, unorganized kitchen space or playrooms, old receipts, bills, and paperwork stuffed in boxes or drawers will take over your home over a period of time.

Household Waste

Chris Stiff, a lecturer in psychology at Keele University says “one of the obvious advantages to a tidy house is that being able to easily locate things will cause you less stress,” There is evidence that tidy environments help us think more clearly.

How to?

Clutter can include unread books, old electronic equipment, files which have not been filed, letters and cards, clothes thrown on the floor, and stuff that you no longer need, want or use but still possess. Remember, clutter is not usually confined to one area that can be spread across your home.

Before anything else, make a simple plan with specific and simple goals that will reduce your frustration and stress.

Here are 12 tips to keep in mind as you start de-cluttering your home:

  1. Make a written note of all the areas you need to de-clutter.
  2. Prioritize the areas/zones for decluttering and assign your time.
  3. Do one area at a time.
  4. Set start and finish dates for each area.
  5. Be sure to pick dates that are real so you get the job completed.
  6. Make time and get help to work on specific areas which may take longer like a garden shed or attic.
  7. Use a system to save on time and energy.
  8. Plan how you might lift on move heavy items.
  9. Research and decide how you will have the clutter removed for recycling once assemble.
  10. Check if items still work!
  11. Use the 80/20 rule – we generally use 20%  of the things we own 80% of the time so do we really use or need the rest?
  12. Get over the money you spent on the items you never use. Once you do that it’s easier to offer for reuse or to recycle.

Once the items are ready you can decide what you want to do about removal. We have a list of some solutions which might work for you.

IMG_0692
Toys and Light – Recycle IT

Outlets for your clutter

  • Don’t hold onto items once they have made the box.
  • Sell some items online, e.g. eBay, Done Deal or Adverts.
  • Repurpose old stuff with some DIY and help from friends.
  • Donate to charity shops.
  • Share items with family, friends, or colleagues e.g. kids’ clothes or toys.
  • Gift your items to friends or colleagues with an interest in them.
  • Share items free for reuse. Go online or find an exchange network.
  • Recycle all old electrical, electronic, and battery-operated items.
  • Moving forward, recycle stuff immediately when used or end of life.
  • Consider gifting items based on condition.
  • After the clear-out consider what you buy and recycle one day at a time.
  • Switch to e-bills.
  • Scan old photos and paperwork.
  • Preventing a build-up is a key step in fighting clutter.

Making the decision to get rid of your old items can be the hardest part of de-cluttering. Like many people, you may have trouble getting rid of items you once used or loved. You have also spent your hard-earned money on the items so they do hold value for you. These are real and valid feelings but no matter how challenging the decision, de-cluttering is necessary and helps reduce stress levels and it will create space!

20180717_121039
Office Clutter – Recycle IT

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, is an award-winning social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop-off and collection. Recycling services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council.

Recycle IT is supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorised by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across the east midlands waste region.

Our goal is to create training and employment opportunities through the provision of waste management services. Surplus earned income is reinvested in operational, and employment-related costs.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Pakman Award Winners 2023

Free Summer Electrical Recycling in the Community

On By JMCEIn Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic Equipment, Social Enterprise, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Here’s an opportunity 

Schools, charities, community groups, and small businesses are invited to recycle or host an electrical recycling collection at their location over the summer starting May 8th 2023.

This initiative aims to divert waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) from offices and staff homes for recycling and is an opportunity to have a free WEEE from Work collection.

Mixed Electrical Equipment

Recycle IT – Recycling Electrical, Electronic, and Metal Items

The idea is to set up a temporary small WEEE collection point or containers in a central area of each school, community group or business to encourage recyclers to get into the habit of diverting more office and domestic electrical items away from the general waste bin.

Your colleagues, volunteers, students or project participants can easily take part. All you need to do is make people aware and reinforce the WEEE recycling message at every opportunity, then watch the container or box fill up.

Recycle IT will accept all types of electrical and pure metal equipment including older items once used and loved in the office, school classroom or canteen.

Close the Loop - Recycle IT
Close the Loop – Recycle IT

How it works

Our team can recycle all the old or unused small waste electrical and electronic equipment collected at your office in Dublin for “free” with Recycle IT. Once you let us know, our team will pick up full containers or boxes of old, damaged or unused electrical, electronic or pure metal items. Just email us quoting FREEMAYRIT

From experience, items will be small and medium size and found at home or in small offices. Click here to see a list.

Recycle IT Arrow - Recylcing Electrical Equipment in Dublin
Recycle IT – Recycling Electrical Equipment in Dublin

Success this Year!

Recycle IT want to say a huge well done to over 200 schools, charities and community groups who have already participated in WEEE recycling collections so far in 2023. We really enjoy working with you and ask that you spread the word to others!

School and community recyclers in 2023 include:

  • St.Decalns College, Dublin 7.
  • St. Christopher’s Primary School, Dublin 4.
  • Sophia Housing Association, Dublin 8.
  • Terenure College, Dublin, D6W.
  • FIT, Dublin 11.
  • Tuath Housing, Dublin 12.
  • Dublin Simon Community Dublin 20.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not-for-profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop-off service for all types of waste electrical, electronic and metal items. Recycle IT offer drop-off and collection services to both homes and organizations in Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of printers and we can help recycle yours!

Our electrical community collection service is provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

To speak with Recycle IT please call 01 4578321 or email us here

Visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT are Awardees for 2023

Computer Recycling Dublin

On By JMCEIn Collections, Computer Recycling, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic Equipment, Social EnterpriseLeave a comment

Recycle More!

The reality is nearly everything in a laptop computer can be recycled yet only 13% of people in the EU recycled old desktop computers and and figure drops to 10% for old laptops or tablets. 33% of people living in the EU keep once oved laptops and tablets, at home after use rather than recycling.

With our recycling initiative, we try to promote reuse first, but most of the computers, laptops servers and communication equipment we deal with are years out of date and beyond repair and reuse. Many have been sitting at home or in offices for years, some have had parts removed or are damaged beyond recovery on arrival but all the equipment can be safely recycled.

Laptops for Recycling

How a standard PC can be recycled:

Keyboards, mice, and other computer accessories are usually made of plastic and are recyclable. The plastic goes through a shredding process and is then sold on the commodities market as mixed plastic scrap.

Some recyclers use optical sorters that create a very clean stream of plastic, with minimal metal contamination. Usually, the plastic is further purified and compounded with virgin plastics and pelletized. This pelletized resin can then be used as a recycled-content plastic.

For example, Recycle IT operates in a supply chain where plastic is processed for reused – to make new parts – a process that has a smaller carbon footprint, lighter environmental footprint and can deliver a cost saving over manufacturing from new materials.

Computer and Laptops

Chassis/Base – these materials are primarily made of metal (PC Chassis) or what’s known as PC/ABS plastics, which are recyclable. Some laptops also feature carbon fibre mixed with polycarbonate plastics to keep the base cool to the touch. This material is not currently widely recycled, but it can be used in waste-to-energy processes.

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), processors, and memory – these are made of multiple types of plastics, fibreglass and precious metals that can be recycled. Scrap copper, precious metals like gold, and some other non-ferrous metals are commonly recovered from computer circuit boards and other components.

Personal Computer System Boards

Once these materials have been sorted out they go through more specialized processes, e.g., circuit boards first into copper recovery, followed by specialized refining of the residues to recover other metals. These processes are usually accomplished through smelting or sometimes through hydro-metallurgical processing via acids or cyanide compounds in order to recover gold and other precious metals.

Batteries – when computers and laptops come into our facilities, the battery is removed from the system manually. Once removed, batteries are separated, packaged safely, and sent for recycling.  Once they reach their destination, the plastic casing is manually separated while the rest of the material is refined through a thermochemical process at high temperatures to separate various materials). The result is a metal alloy and a stony waste material separated from metals during the smelting: the metal alloys are further treated to recover cobalt, nickel, copper, and iron; lithium is typically concentrated in the stony waste material and is often recovered.

Computer cables

Cables – wire and cable that is not damaged can be reused directly. The high-grade copper can also be recovered by manually removing insulation with simple tools or by chopping wire into small pieces. After arriving at a specialised facility they undergo a hydrological process in which the small pieces of insulation float while the copper sinks. Unfortunately, the plastic insulation from the wire-chopping process is very hard to recycle and is usually sent to a waste-to-energy facility.

Screens – many manufacturers have stopped using mercury and arsenic in flat panel monitors making it easier to recycle display panels at their end-of-life. The recycling approach for LCD panels involves the separation of the glass substrate, polarizer foils, and the elements indium and copper into individual outputs. This process is carried out in Ireland, and we are delighted to be able to supply screens for safe recycling,

IT Equipment

Fans – made of plastics and metals, which can be separated and recycled.

Other parts – there are other things that go into your computer, like screws, springs, small plastic parts, etc. and they are generally made from the materials above, making them mostly recyclable. They typically make up only a small portion of the overall product.

Packaging – As part of recycling we receive a lot of corrugated cardboard, as well as other materials like plastic bags and creates. We try to reuse these items; we bale cardboard for reuse but some of the materials can’t be reused at present and are sent for heat recovery through incineration.

In support of Recycle IT – please recycle old, unused electronics. It helps the environment with reuse, reduces the mining of new raw materials and creates training and employment for people returning to work after an absence.

About Recycle IT 

Recycle IT, is a social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop-off and collection. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Click here to learn more about recycling metal with Recycle IT.

Further information on ICT equipment reuse and recycling in the EU can be found here.

Dormant Accounts Fund Logo
Recycle IT is Part Funded through the Dormant Accounts Fund

Ministerial visit to Recycle IT

On By JMCEIn Awards, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, News, Social EnterpriseLeave a comment

Monday, March 6th 2023

Minister for Community Development, Integration and Charities, Joe O’Brien TD, made a visit to Recycle IT on Monday, March 6th, 2023. Board members and the staff team were on hand to greet the minister and share details on the work of Recycle IT a social enterprise striving to create training and employment opportunities through the recycling of old, damaged, or unused electrical and electronic equipment collected from homes and organisations. 

Minister Joe O’Brien on arrival at Recycle IT

Announcement

During the visit to Recycle IT, Minister Joe O’Brien made time for an important announcement, the Minister said:

“I am delighted to launch a new Call for Applications under the Community Services Programme (CSP). The purpose of this funding is to support social enterprises and community/voluntary organisations with an additional strand focusing on circular economy projects that are either Traveller led or ones that will primarily employ members of the Traveller community.”

Funding of €1 million will be available for this new call in 2023 which will provide new organisations with an opportunity to access support to employ additional staff in line with the programme’s re-defined sub-programmes and new vision, which were approved in 2022.

Minister Joe O’Brien and Recycle IT Voluntary Board of Directors

Pre-application support workshops will be rolled out to ensure organisations are fully equipped with the information that they need to apply for this funding. As a first step, an Information Event will be held for organisations interested in applying for the programme on the week beginning 20 March 2023. Details will be shared on the Pobal CSP webpage and on the Department of Rural and Community Development social media channels. Organisations that wish to be notified about the workshops can also contact csp@pobal.ie

Following the pre-application support, organisations will be invited to submit a short concept note to Pobal outlining their proposal for assessment against the objectives of the call and organisations will then be informed whether their proposal fits with the call.

The Minister continued:

“The CSP supports a range of services, facilities and activities that enhance the quality of life for specific disadvantaged groups within our communities. This open call will be essential in broadening the range of services available and bringing new organisations onto the programme. I am delighted to say that we will also have a range of support workshops to assist those organisations in applying to the CSP Programme.”

Minister Joe O’Brien

About CSP

The Community Services Programme (CSP) supports over 420 community-based organisations including Recycle IT to provide local services through a social enterprise model. This model helps create training and employment opportunities for specific disadvantaged groups and individuals, such as people with disabilities, Travellers, recovering drug misusers, ex-prisoners, and long-term unemployed.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing community, personal and business recycling services for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in Dublin and surrounding counties.

During 2022 Recycle IT offered drop off and collection services to thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which included thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves, TVs, and computer screens.

Recycling services offered by Recycle IT are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Pobal-managed, Community Services Programme, Dormant Accounts and by South Dublin County Council. Recycling services are authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For more information about Recycle IT please visit www.recycleit.ie or call 01 4578321.

The Recycler IT Team – Farewell to Minister Joe O’Brien

Recycle small electrics now!

On By JMCEIn Awards, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic Equipment, Family, News, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Small Matters

In 2024, there was a 75% surge in small electrical device sales in Ireland, driven by vapes and solar panels, leading to 93 million household items sold, a massive increase from 2006. Despite this growth, 84% of Irish households reported hoarding an average of 15-20 unused electrical items, and one in eight people admitted to disposing of small items in general waste bins (Source: WEEE Ireland and ERP)

That is a lot of old unused phones which could be recycled for good and with the festive season around the corner there will be lot more old, damaged or unused small electrical items which can be recycled

Using and Replacing

As technology at home and in the office evolves, the speed at which people cease using their existing small electrical and electronic items and replace them with newer models happens with increased regularity. Days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday and gifting for Christmas increase exposure to new gadgets and drive consumers to purchase!

Small Mixed Electrical/Electronic Item – Recycle IT

What is Small?

Individuals young and old replace mobile phones, modems, toys, game consoles, chargers, virtual assistants (AI technology), smartwatches and fitness monitors without thinking too much about the older equipment. Did you know the average life of a smartphone and smartwatch is approx? 24 months.

There are reasons for a short life such as built-in obsolescence or the consumer’s perceived need or want for the newest product. Research by the German Environment Agency on the lifespan of consumer electronics can provide further information; just click here.

Small Household Electrical Items – Recycle IT

Before you dispose of old items please be aware many items contain valuable metals and plastics. With natural resources in limited supply, combined with ever-increasing waste disposal costs, it’s important that we safely recycle small electrical items so that they can be reused in new products.

Small Electrical Equipment List

Items like those listed above and below (if not fit for reuse) are usually shredded to reduce volume and are mechanically separated into their component parts (plastics, ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals). The materials collected will then be reused. For example, mixed-grade plastic can be used to make street and park furniture or multi-purpose decking. Any metals recovered are reused in the manufacture of many different types of new products including your new phone or tablet!

Small Electrical Equipment List (Continued)

What to do?

Recycle IT can help you recycle your small, old, unused or damaged electrical items including batteries of all types.  Pop your batteries in a small clear bag alongside items like kettles, toasters or small electric tools and they all will be safely recycled. Please don’t place them in the black, brown or green bin or leave them out for unauthorised collection.

Small Electrical Jukebox – Recycle IT

Recycle IT want to encourage all users of electrical items to recycle their unwanted, damaged, broken or outdated small electrical gadgets when recycling large items from their homes and offices. Clear out draws, shelves and bags used to store smaller items out of sight!

Recycle IT offer a community collection service, a business collection service and free drop-off to communities across Dublin and would like to see an increase in the amount of small electrical items received for safe recycling. If this does not work for you, simply place it in an envelope or small box and post it to us!

Please don’t horde items in the hope of future repair for reuse. Please do get items repaired quickly and if not please recycle!

For full lists of items that can be recycled by Recycle IT click here. (PFD files can be viewed or downloaded)

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing a community, personal and business collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in Dublin and surrounding counties.

During 2022 Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and screens

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, Dormant Accounts, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For more information about Recycle IT please visit www.recycleit.ie or call 01 4578321.

Recycle IT – Dublin City Social Enterprise Award Winner 2022

UPS Battery Recycling

On By JMCEIn Climate change, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic EquipmentLeave a comment

About Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS), provides backup power when your regular power source fails or voltage drops to an unacceptable level. A UPS is also known as a battery backup. Although UPSs are not truly IT equipment they play an important part in ensuring reliability. UPSs ensure a flow of high-quality power to critical IT equipment.

Old UPS Devices for Recycling

Using UPS Equipment

A UPS is not intended to provide long-term backup or extended use of connected devices for periods without power; UPS units are not designed to offer a battery-operated solution for continuing to work, use the internet, or operate your business.

Multiple devices can be plugged into a UPS similar to a power bar, and the UPS generally provides such functions as power surge protection. When a drop in voltage occurs, the UPS detects it and switches over to battery backup. Components plugged into the UPS can then receive power for a limited amount of time (often ranging from 10 to 45 minutes), until normal power is restored or the system can shut down properly.

UPS equipment can be found in offices and now homes as many more people work from home. It with noting, that over time UPS devices and internal batteries need to be replaced while older UPS units should go for safe recycling.

Your IT team or IT contractor should be able to offer guidance on when you need to replace batteries or the complete UPS device.

Different Types of Power Supply Batteries

There are three main types of batteries used in power supplies: Nickel-Cadmium, Lead-Acid, and Lithium-Ion. There isn’t a single “best” UPS battery technology – the choice should be made on a your requirements for a project. All can be recycled safely.

Recycling UPS Equipment

Alongside all type of IT equipment Recycle IT manage the safe collection, breakdown and disposal of UPS equipment, batteries and replacement UPS batteries in line with waste regulations.

UPS Breakdown

As a registered waste collector and permit waste facility our service helps ensure that all the legal requirements associated with the collection, transportation and disposal of waste batteries and electronic components are fully complied with.

The majority of UPS systems for recycling are older systems with at least ten years of usage. Those sent for recycling are replaced by higher efficiency and more compact systems. Uninterruptible power supplies are generally stripped down within our facility into their subassembly parts. Metals and plastics are recycled, including electrical cabling, capacitors and fans. PCBs and components are recycled safely and in accordance with national guidelines covering WEEE and RoHS.

Batteries from UPS equipment

For more information about our ups battery recycling service, please contact a member of our team @ info@recycleit.ie

More About Recylce IT

Recycle IT is a Social Enterprise providing employment and training through recycling opportunities. We offer recycling drop off and collection services in Dublin and surrounding areas.

In 2021 our team help recycle 652 tons of waste electrical, electronic equipment and metal. This includes business IT equipment, commercial equipment and domestic household appliances.

Recycle IT worked with individuals, resident associations, charities, schools, government organisations, community groups and businesses to provide safe electrical recycling services to those with differing needs and budgets.

Read our annual overview here.

Read more about social enterprise in Ireland here.

Team Recycle IT at Work

E-Waste in the EU: Facts and Figures

On By JMCEIn Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Electronic Equipment, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

We are sharing a news article from the European Parliament, a forum for political debate and decision-making at EU level. This particular article was published on 23 December 2020 and is about electrical and electronic waste and the fact that it growing faster than any other waste stream. Check out the facts and figures in the infographics below.

Did you know that less than 40% of e-waste is recycled. Electronic devices and electrical equipment define our modern life. From washing machines and vacuum cleaners to smartphones and computers, it is hard to imagine life without them. But the waste they generate has become an obstacle in the EU efforts to reduce its overall ecological footprint. This includes Ireland.

What is e-waste?

Electronic and electrical waste, or e-waste, covers a variety of different products that are thrown away after use. From the largest items to the smallest including cables, phones and batteries. Large household appliances, such as washing machines and electric stoves, are the most collected, making up more than half of all collected e-waste.

This is followed by IT and telecommunications equipment (laptops, printers), consumer equipment and photovoltaic panels (video cameras, fluorescent lamps) and small household appliances (vacuum cleaners, toasters, kettles etc.).

All other categories, such as electrical tools and medical devices, together make up just 7.2% of the collected e-waste.

E-waste recycling rate in the EU

Less than 40% of all e-waste in the EU is recycled, the rest is unsorted. Recycling practices vary among EU countries. In 2017, Croatia recycled 81% of all electronic and electrical waste, while in Malta, the figure was 21%. Ireland recycles 47.7% of all electronic and electrical waste but this figure could be a ;ot higher if we all did more.

Why do we need to recycle electronic and electrical waste?

Discarded electronic and electrical equipment contains potentially harmful materials that pollute the environment and increase the risks for people involved in recycling e-waste. To counter this problem, the EU has passed legislation to prevent the use of certain chemicals, like lead.

Many rare minerals that are needed in modern technology come from countries that do not respect human rights. To avoid inadvertently supporting armed conflict and human rights abuses, MEPs have adopted rules requiring European importers of rare earth minerals to carry out background checks on their suppliers.

What is the EU doing do reduce e-waste?

In March 2020, the European Commission presented a new circular economy action plan that has as one of its priorities the reduction of electronic and electrical waste. The proposal specifically outlines immediate goals like creating the “right to repair” and improving reusability in general, the introduction of a common charger and establishing a rewards system to encourage recycling electronics.

To learn more and read the post from the European Parliament please click here.

If you need to recycle electrical or electronic equipment safely Recycle IT are happy to help. Just send us an email or call 01 4578321 for more details.

Recycle IT is a not for profit, social enterprise based in Clondalkin, Co Dublin, Ireland.

Recycle IT Collection