Tag: Eco Friendly

Enjoy Summer -Garden safely and recycle!

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Green fingers and tools!

Gardening activities offers lots of health benefits, both physically and mentally, especially during the summer months. It provides fresh produce, improves physical health, and reduces stress. Summer gardens also require specific maintenance, including proper watering, weeding, and deadheading, to keep plants thriving. 

Gardening can play a role in keeping you and your family fit and eating well across the seasons. Gardens can also be a safe place for insects, bees, birds and animals to live and thrive, spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Garden Tools

Recycling is also good for our well-being and minimises the impacts on our health and our planet. The more you recycle as items comes to the end of there ‘useful life the better! Recycling helps protect the environment for future generations. Old garden electrical, electronic and metal equipment can be recycled safely and free so do it right!

Gardening is a great way to get physical activity and beautify your home and neighborhood.  Its also important to protect yourself and take proper precautions when you are outside with tools, chemicals and insects.  Maybe take a few minutes to read up on garden safety before starting!

Summer Park Dublin

Metal garden equipment or garden tools that use electricity through self-charging or via a plug or battery, can be reused by someone new or if damaged they can be recycled with ease. This includes everyday garden equipment which is old damaged or unused. You can easily recycle Hoes & Tillers, Shovels & Rakes Metal Hand Tools, Spades & Hand Trowels, Pruning Shears & Loppers, Lawn Mowers and Leaf Blowers with Recycle IT in Dublin.

Remember, recycling garden tools benefits the environment. Recycling makes it easier to preserve natural resources, as materials such as metal and plastic are repurposed instead of being thrown away. Recycling helps reduces the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, meaning less pollution from transport vehicles and fewer harmful chemicals being released into the atmosphere which has to be good for you and your garden.

Older Garden Equipment

Old Lawnmowers for Recycling

When you buy a new electric, rechargeable or petrol lawn mower you can recycle your old mower with Recycle IT. We will dispose of it in a legal and environmentally friendly way. You can also safely recycle chainsaws, garden shredders, water pumps, lawn trimmers, garden multi-tools, grass trimmers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, garden vacuums, pressure/power washers, string trimmers, rototillers, pole saws, household chippers, shredders and even old BBQs. If you are unsure if your item can be recycled safely just give us a call.

How to Recycle Garden Tools

Please do not dispose of electrical products used in the garden with your normal household waste bin or in a skip. Please use an electrical waste recycling centre like Recycle IT. Once the equipment was used in your home garden, school or community there is no charge for our recycling service. Petrol lawnmowers can be recycled alongside old garden metal at Recycle IT. Please make sure the lawnmower petrol tank is completely empty before collection or drop off.

Gardening Equipment

WEEE Symbols and Regulations

Remember all electrical, electronic, and battery-operated equipment should display this symbol on the packaging or the product. The symbol indicates that the product should not be disposed of with normal household waste but taken to an authorised recycling centre for safe recycling.

Each year in Ireland we generate thousands of tones of electrical waste, those items that are discarded contain a variety of materials, including metal, glass, plastics, ceramics, and precious metals and because of this complex mix of materials without specialized waste processes can create several health risks.

Irish Waste Management Regulations 2014 (S.I. No. 149 of 2014) (the WEEE Regulations) are designed to promote the recovery of WEEE, and to facilitate the achievement of targets for the collection, treatment, recovery, and disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in an environmentally sound manner.

What Is WEEE Recycling?
Don’t Bin Electrical Equipment

Producers and retailers are responsible for the financing, treatment, recovery and disposal of WEEE. This means that customers (end users) buying or using household and home garden WEEE are entitled to drop off without charge at authorised recycling facilities.

You can book a cost effective collection here.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT offer recycling opportunities to home and business customers for all types of electronics equipment. AT Recycle IT, recycling is available using free, drop-off, free community collections or through a cost-effective personal or business collection. Our team will accept any old household or small office electrical items alongside all types of metal and electrical or rechargeable garden equipment.

Recycle IT as a social enterprise works in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office.

To learn more about recycling electrical equipment please call Recycle IT on 01 4578321, email us or visit www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT Partners

Recycle IT – People and Planet First Verified

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

People and Planet First Verified Matters

We’re proud to share that Recycle IT has been awarded the People and Planet First Verified status through Good Market – a platform that supports businesses creating positive change in the world. This recognition means a lot to us, and we want to explain why it matters and how it helps us continue our mission.

What is Good Market?

Good Market is more than just a marketplace. It’s a global platform that brings together businesses and organizations working for a better world. These are companies that don’t just focus on making profits, but also care deeply about people and the planet. From small farms and eco-brands to social enterprises and non-profits, Good Market connects these changemakers to customers, partners, and supporters.

They carefully review each organization before listing them. Only those that meet their high standards for social and environmental impact are approved and verified.

What is “People and Planet First Verified”?

The People and Planet First badge is a special recognition given to social enterprises that put the needs of people and the environment at the center of their work. It shows that a business is not just talking about doing good – they are actually doing it in their daily operations.

To receive this badge, businesses must:

  • Prove that they are making a real positive impact.
  • Show that they care for workers, communities, and nature.
  • Be transparent, open, and accountable.
  • Use profits to grow their mission, not just enrich owners or shareholders.

This badge is also recognized by the UN Taskforce on the Social and Solidarity Economy, making it a meaningful global standard.

Why This Matters to Recycle IT

At Recycle IT, our goal has always been simple: to reduce waste, protect the environment, and create opportunities for people in our community. We collect and recycle e-waste and other materials in a way that is safe, responsible, and helps build a cleaner world.

Getting this badge means:

  • Our efforts are being seen and validated by a trusted global community.
  • We are part of a movement that values fairness, sustainability, and care.
  • We can connect with like-minded partners, customers, and supporters around the world.

This recognition pushes us to keep improving, to do even more, and to be proud of our role in the new economy – one that is not based on exploitation, but on regeneration and inclusion.

Good for People. Good for the Planet.

The Benefits of Being Verified

Becoming People and Planet First Verified brings many benefits, especially for a mission-driven organization like ours:

  1. Trust and Credibility
    The badge shows that we meet high standards. Customers, funders, and partners can trust that we are serious about our impact. It helps us stand out in a crowded market.
  2. Global Visibility
    Good Market gives us a profile on its platform, where people from all over the world can find and support our work. This increases our reach and opens doors to new opportunities.
  3. Networking and Collaboration
    Being part of the Good Market community means we can connect with other verified enterprises, share knowledge, and work together on common goals.
  4. Continuous Support
    Good Market doesn’t just list our name – it helps us grow. They offer updates, tools, and learning resources to help us improve and stay aligned with our mission.
  5. Being a Part of Something Bigger
    We’re now part of a global movement that believes business can be a force for good. This is inspiring and motivating, and it helps us stay committed even when challenges come.

What’s Next for Recycle IT

This recognition is not the end – it’s just the beginning. We will keep working hard to serve our community, care for the planet, and offer fair, meaningful work to those who need it most. We’re looking at new ways to improve our recycling process, reduce pollution, and educate people about waste and sustainability.

A Big Thank You

We thank Good Market for this honor. And most of all, we thank our team, partners, and supporters. You are the reason we can keep doing what we do. Together, we are building a future that works for everyone. It also important to note this award was made available through a project offered by Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland (SERI) and supported by the Irish Government.

Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland

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 with WEEE Recycling Requirements and permit details are available here.

Over the last 20 year Recycle IT have happily offered safe electrical and electronic recycling services to households and small and medium size organisations across a range of sectors. We offer our services all over Dublin and in surrounding areas. We are happy to offer cost effective and safe computer, laptop or tablet data destruction for home users and small offices on request.

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

Recycle IT at Work

Free Home Appliances Recycling

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

Disposing of Old Electrical Appliances

Recycling home appliances helps protect the environment, saves energy, reduces waste, and conserves valuable materials. It’s a smart, eco-friendly choice for everyone. Recent statistics show consumers recycled a record-breaking 41,730 tonnes of electronic and electrical waste in 2023 – the equivalent of almost 200 forty-foot containers more than the previous year, new figures reveal.

Over 15 million small appliances such as coffee makers, calculators, kettles and keyboards, along with the equivalent of 66 million used AA batteries were also handed back for safe recycling to make their way into the circular economy.

Members of the public may dispose of all their old household waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE)  free of charge at Recycle IT in Clondalkin, Co Dublin.

WEEE Ireland – 20 Years of Recycling

Recycle IT are happy to say we have worked in partnership with WEEE Ireland for 20 year to help recycle appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, cookers, hobs, televisions, computers, laptops, tablets, cables, toasters, kettles, heaters, clocks, lights, lamps and lots more! You will find helpful lists here.

How it Works

WEEE Ireland supports Recycle IT  in the collection and recycling of old damaged or unused electrical items. This service is part-financed by the payment of tariffs from the producers who originally put the WEEE into the marketplace. Recycling opportunities are available free to resident groups through a door to door collection services. Up to 500 homes per day are offered an electrical recycling collection with help provided with lifting and moving items. The service is age-friendly and our teams are helpful so don’t be shy!

Recycle ITWhat does Electrical / WEEE Recycling Mean?

The WEEE Regulations were introduced to promote the environmentally responsible disposal, recovery, and recycling of consumer electrical goods and appliances in Ireland.  The Regulations apply to all kinds of Electrical & Electronic Equipment but contain limited exemptions for certain types of devices, such as some medical or military items.

These regulations require the Producers (manufacturers and importers) and Retailers of Electrical & Electronic Equipment to ensure systems are in place to fund and encourage the return, collection, and recycling of WEEE items from the general public. Recycle IT supports this recycling activity and is licensed to do so.

Retailer / Consumers Recycling

Retailers of Electrical & Electronic Equipment, including internet sellers, are now required by law to provide for take-back of WEEE articles from customers free of charge, subject to the conditions below:

Free retailer take-back only applies when a new item has been purchased and on a one-for-one basis.

Collected Electrical Appliances

Any item for return must be of a similar type as the new item being bought; e.g. a retailer is not obliged to accept a television if a customer has only bought a toaster.

With any household items that require delivery, retailers must collect the old appliance free of charge, and give at least 24 hours’ notice of delivery. Items such as fridges must be properly de-frosted and disconnected by the customer before collection. Depending on the retailer there may be a delivery charge.

All retailers selling Electrical & Electronic Equipment to the general public are legally obliged to comply with various other requirements under the WEEE Regulations, including measures relating to the:

  • Display of statutory WEEE signage in-store, which must be displayed at each point of sale;
  • Provision of information explaining WEEE take-back procedures and deadlines to the public;
  • Provision of a suitable storage area for any returned WEEE items.
  • Further information on the WEEE Regulations is also available on the EPA website.

Civic Amenity Recycling 

In Dublin and surrounding areas all old, damaged and unwanted household electrical items, batteries and energy-saving light bulbs can be brought to your nearest civic amenity site for free recycling. A list of these locations in Dublin is available here

Recycle IT Recycling 

Electrical and electronics recycling services have been operated by Recycle IT since 2002. Our teams work with householders, charities, schools, colleges, businesses, government, non-government and community-based organizations in Dublin and the surrounding counties of Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT 2019 TV
Recycle IT / Recycle TV’s

Recycle IT offer Residents Association door-to-door collections, personal collections and business recycling collections. Recycling services are offered to homes and organisations to help ensure electronic, electrical and metal equipment is safely recycled. Equipment collected flows through an authorized and approved recycling supply chain which feeds the circular economy and ultimately reuse.

As a not-for-profit social enterprise, Recycle IT has benefited the WEEE sector since 2007 by collecting waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) from householders and community organizations who can find it costly and therefore hard to recycle.

IMG_20160422_140933
Recycle IT Community Residents Collection

Examples of items that can be recycled for free include:

  • All types of batteries including farm fencing and automotive batteries
  • Torches, Power tools, and other Small Electrical Devices
  • Fridges, Freezers, Washing Machines, and Electric Ovens
  • PCs, Networking, TVs, Monitors, Cables, Chargers
  • Energy Saving Lamps and other Lighting Equipment
  • Along with any other household WEEE, you may have.

These types of items are accepted free by (Residents’ associations and organisations).

For full/downloadable lists of all items recycled please click here

To learn more call 01 4578321 or email info@recycleit.ie 

If you miss your Recycle IT collection day remember that you can recycle your household electrical waste and waste batteries at our recycling centre free of charge. Click here for our location and directions. You can also arrange a cost-effective personal collection with Recycle IT. Just click here

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 with WEEE collection regulations. Our permit details are available here.

Recycle IT – Community Recycling Initiative of the Year 2023

Electrical Equipment – 36 Simple Recycling Tips 🌍

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

For Homes and Offices

Households and small offices should prioritize easy and safe electrical and electronic recycling to reduce e-waste, prevent pollution, and conserve natural resources. Proper disposal minimizes toxic hazards, supports a circular economy, and promotes sustainability. Recycling responsibly protects the environment, conserves energy, and fosters a cleaner, healthier community for everyone.

Here are 36 simple tips and reasons for households and small offices to focus on easy and safe electrical and electronic recycling in their community:

Promoting Electrical and Electronic Recycling – Recycle IT

Why Recycling Matters

  1. Reduces E-Waste – Prevents harmful waste from ending up in landfills.
  2. Protects the Environment – Stops toxic substances like lead and mercury from polluting soil and water.
  3. Saves Energy – Recycling materials requires less energy than mining new ones.
  4. Conserves Natural Resources – Reduces the need for raw materials like metals and plastics.
  5. Reduces Carbon Footprint – Helps lower emissions from manufacturing new products.
  6. Prevents Illegal Dumping – Ensures hazardous waste is properly handled.
  7. Promotes a Circular Economy – Recycled materials can be reused in new products.
  8. Supports Local Jobs – Encourages employment and training in recycling.
  9. Improves Community Cleanliness – Reduces clutter and dumping of old electronics.
  10. Encourages Responsible Consumption – Promotes awareness about sustainability.
Mixed Electrical and Electronic Equipment – Recycle IT

How to Recycle Safely

  1. Find Local Recycling Programs – Check government or community websites for e-waste collection and centres – Recycle IT is one!
  2. Use Retailer Take-Back Services – Many stores accept old electronics when purchasing new ones.
  3. Donate Working Devices – Offer functional electronics to schools, charities, or community centres.
  4. Schedule E-Waste Collection Days – Participate in local events for safe disposal.
  5. Remove Personal Data – Wipe all devices before or during recycling to protect your information.
  6. Separate Batteries – Dispose of all equipment properly to avoid leaks and fire hazards.
  7. Know What Can Be Recycled – Items like old phones, laptops, printers, and cables can be recycled.
  8. Avoid Landfill Disposal – Never throw electronics in any domestic or office bin.
  9. Use Authorised Recyclers – Choose recycling initiatives approved by authorities with collection and facility permits to allow safe recycling.
  10. Follow Local Guidelines – Some areas have specific rules for disposing of e-waste.
Mixed Electrical and Electronic Equipment – Recycle IT

Easy Steps for Home / Office Recycling

  1. Create a Recycling Station – Set up a dedicated space for used electronics.
  2. Label Recycling Bins – Clearly mark bins for batteries, cables, and devices.
  3. Educate Family & Employees – Inform others about e-waste recycling importance.
  4. Encourage Repairs – Fix devices instead of replacing them when possible.
  5. Upgrade Responsibly – Sell or trade in old electronics when upgrading.
  6. Use Cloud Storage – Reduce the need for physical storage devices.
  7. Unplug Unused Devices – Reduces energy waste and extends product lifespan.
  8. Buy Recycled Products – Support brands that use recycled materials.
  9. Minimize Purchases – Only buy new electronics when necessary.
  10. Support E-Waste Policies – Advocate for better recycling laws in your community.
Mixed Electrical and Electronic Equipment – Recycle IT

Benefits of E-Waste Recycling

  1. Less Clutter at Home & Office – Keeps spaces organized and free of old tech.
  2. Encourages Responsible Manufacturing – Companies improve designs for reuse and recyclability.
  3. Promotes Sustainable Living – Helps build a greener future.
  4. Reduces Health Risks – Prevents exposure to harmful e-waste chemicals.
  5. Improves Waste Management – Ensures better handling of hazardous materials.
  6. Builds a Conscious Community – Encourages collective efforts for environmental responsibility.

By adopting these simple habits, households and small offices can contribute to a safer and greener planet while managing their electronics responsibly!

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 with WEEE Recycling Requirements and permit details are available here.

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

Team Recylce IT

38 Winter Reuse and Recyclng Tips ☃️❄️

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Pre Festive / Winter Reuse and Recycling Tips

Here are 38 Tips for reusing, reducing waste, and safely recycling in winter, both at work and at home. These ideas can help you minimize waste, make the most of what you have, and keep the environment clean during the colder months while also saving you some money, a scare resource all year round.

Some recycling and reuse tips can be used immediately and others before, during and after Christmas 2024.   For some people recycling items might work better than reuse so you make the call! Have a look at the charity shop infographic below.

Charity Shop – Guide to Recycling

38 Winter Tips

1. Repurpose Gift Wrap and Packaging Materials. Save gift wrap, bows, boxes, bags and packing materials to reuse for future gifts or shipping needs.

2. Use Leftover Wrapping Paper for Crafts. Shred or cut leftover paper into strips for holiday crafts, confetti, or cushion material for packaging boxes or envelopes.

3. Upcycle Old Sweaters. Transform old sweaters into mittens, scarves, or cozy throw pillows instead of discarding them.

4. Create Homemade Fire Starters. Use cardboard tubes, dryer lint, and melted candle stubs to make fire starters for winter bonfires or fireplaces.

5. Repurpose Glass Jars and Bottles. Use empty glass jars for storing small items, organizing craft supplies, or creating winter candle holders.

Bottles and Jars

6. Recycle Christmas Trees Properly. Check for local tree recycling programs or compost your tree if possible.

7. Make Eco-Friendly De-Icers. Use sand or kitty litter instead of salt to prevent icy walkways while reducing environmental impact.

8. Compost Holiday Food Scraps. Compost vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and other compostable scraps from holiday meals.

9. Use Reusable Shopping Bags and Containers. Avoid single-use bags by using cloth bags and containers for holiday shopping and gift giving.

10. Reuse Shipping Boxes. Keep sturdy boxes from holiday packages for future storage or shipping needs.

11. Repurpose Old Christmas Cards. Turn last year’s festive cards into gift tags, bookmarks, or festive decorations.

Cards for Reuse

12. Donate or Sell Old Winter Clothing. Give coats, scarves, and winter accessories you no longer use to local shelters or thrift stores.

13. Repair or Resole Winter Boots. Extend the life of winter footwear by repairing rather than discarding them.

14. Store Seasonal Decorations Responsibly. Reuse bins, containers, and bags you already own to safely store holiday decorations for next year.

15. Use LED Holiday Lights. Switch to LED lights for holiday decorating; they use less energy and last longer.

16. Use Timers for Holiday Lights. Set timers to minimize energy use and prolong the life of your holiday lights.

17. Upcycle Tin Cans. Decorate clean tin cans as rustic candle holders or plant pots.

18. Make Natural Air Fresheners. Simmer orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to create a natural winter scent instead of using air fresheners.

19. Recycle Old Electronics Safely. Recycle or donate old electronics at certified e-waste recycling centres.

20. Use a Programmable Thermostat. Use a programmable thermostat to lower energy use by automatically adjusting heat based on when you’re home.

21. Insulate Windows with Reusable Kits. Simple to use, window Insulation Kits can help to reduce heat loss and save energy.

Insulated Window

22. Reuse Paper Bags as Gift Wrap. Decorate paper bags to use as gift wrap or for simple, rustic winter decor.

23. Make DIY Reusable Gift Wraps. Use fabric scraps, scarves, or tea towels as eco-friendly, reusable gift wrap alternatives.

24. Donate Extra Blankets. Donate old blankets to animal shelters or homeless shelters to keep others warm in winter.

25. Recycle Paper and Cardboard Properly. Flatten and recycle any cardboard or paper boxes that can’t be reused.

26. Use Egg Cartons for Crafting. Egg cartons can make great storage containers for holiday ornaments or crafting supplies.

27. Create a ‘Recycle Station’ at Work. Designate a convenient area for recycling paper, plastic, and other materials in your workplace.

28. Bring a Reusable Mug for Winter Drinks. Use a thermos or reusable cup for hot drinks instead of single-use coffee cups.

Reuse Cup

29. Make Homemade Ice Packs. Use old cloths or bags filled with frozen rice or beans to create reusable ice packs.

30. Repurpose Old Books. Use damaged or outdated books for DIY projects like wreaths, gift tags, or ornaments.

31. Switch to Refillable Pens. Encourage use of refillable pens and pencils to reduce plastic waste at work and home.

32. Recycle Batteries Responsibly. Collect and recycle dead batteries at designated recycling locations instead of tossing them in the trash.

33. Reuse Leftover Candle Wax. Melt down leftover wax to make new candles or use them as fire starters.

34. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products. Choose biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products for post-holiday clean-ups.

35. Reduce Unnecessary Heating. Layer up in cozy clothing rather than increasing the thermostat too often.

36. Make a Reusable Advent Calendar. Create a fabric or paper advent calendar that can be reused every winter.

37. Reuse Envelopes and Paper. Save envelopes and unused paper for notetaking or as scratch paper at work.

38. Plan Waste-Free Winter Meals. Plan meals to reduce food waste by using leftover ingredients in creative recipes.

EPA Reuse and Recycling Rates

Why Tips are Important

Reuse and recycling tips are important because they help reduce waste, save natural resources, and protect the environment. By reusing items and recycling properly, we lower the demand for new products, conserve energy, and minimize pollution. Small actions—like repurposing materials or recycling paper and plastic—make a big difference. These habits help create a cleaner planet and a more sustainable future for everyone.

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 2023 Recycle IT offered drop off and collection services to over ten of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of electricals which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and TV’s.

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 Leinster.

Recycle IT