Mattress Recycling 2026 – Authorised

On July 16, 2026July 27, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Climate change, Dublin, Event, Family, Plastic, Reuse, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Household Mattress Recycling Free Summer 2026

Replacing an old mattress often leaves householders with one important question – what do I do with the old one? From early August through to late September 2026, that question has a simple answer.

_{Mattresses for Recycling in the Community}

Recycle IT, in partnership with South Dublin County Council (SDCC), is delighted to launch a Free Household Mattress Recycling Amnesty, giving residents the opportunity to recycle unwanted household mattresses responsibly and completely free of charge.

The initiative aims to make household mattress recycling more accessible while reducing waste, supporting the circular economy and helping to keep communities across South Dublin clean and free from illegal dumping.

Free Mattress Recycling Drop-Off at Recycle IT

Throughout the amnesty period, householders can bring unwanted mattresses directly to the Recycle IT recycling facility in Clondalkin, where they will be accepted free of charge.

Every mattress received will enter an authorised recycling process where valuable materials such as steel springs, timber, foam, textiles and fibres are separated and recovered for reuse wherever possible. This helps divert bulky waste from landfill while ensuring recyclable materials remain in productive use. Recycle IT operates as a not-for-profit social enterprise in cooperation with South Dublin County Council and other recycling partners to deliver environmental and community benefits.

Directions to Recycle IT

Directions to Recycle IT Recycling Centre:

The recycling facility is located at: Unit 14/2 Crag Terrace, Clondalkin Industrial Estate, Dublin D22 TK37
Recycle IT will be open between 9.30am – 3pm, Monday to Friday for mattress drop from Tuesday, August 4^th to Friday September 25^th, 2026
Call us on 01 4578321

Community Mattress Collection Events

Recognizing that not everyone can transport a mattress to the recycling centre, Recycle IT and South Dublin County Council will also organise a series of Community Mattress Collection Days throughout the amnesty period.

_{Mattress Recycling Community Events – Click to Enlarge}

These local collection events will take place at authorised drop-off locations across South Dublin, making recycling even easier for residents.

Instead of travelling to Clondalkin, householders will be able to bring their old mattresses to designated community collection points closer to home.

These community events demonstrate how local partnerships can deliver practical environmental solutions while making recycling more convenient for everyone.

Why Recycle a Mattress?

Many people don’t realise that a mattress contains several recyclable materials.

These include:

Steel springs
Timber
Foam
Cotton
Polyester fibres
Fabric coverings

When processed correctly, these materials can be recovered and reused in manufacturing new products.

Without recycling, bulky mattresses occupy valuable landfill space for many years while wasting materials that still have significant value.

Choosing recycling instead helps conserve natural resources while reducing unnecessary waste.

Supporting Ireland’s Circular Economy

The Mattress Recycling Amnesty supports Ireland’s move towards a more circular economy, where products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible.

Instead of disposing of useful resources, recycling allows valuable components to be recovered and used again.

This reduces demand for new raw materials, lowers manufacturing impacts and supports more sustainable production.

Every mattress recycled contributes to reducing waste while improving resource efficiency.

Environmental Benefits

Recycling a mattress may seem like a small action, but collectively it makes a significant difference.

The benefits include:

Reducing bulky waste entering landfill.
Recovering valuable recyclable materials.
Conserving natural resources.
Lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with manufacturing new materials.
Supporting sustainable waste management.
Helping keep neighbourhoods cleaner.

When thousands of householders recycle rather than dispose of mattresses, the environmental impact is substantial.

Benefits for Householders

The Mattress Recycling Amnesty has been designed to make responsible recycling as easy as possible.

Householders will benefit from:

Free mattress recycling throughout the campaign.
Convenient drop-off at the Recycle IT facility.
Additional community collection locations across South Dublin.
Confidence that mattresses are recycled through authorised facilities.
An easy alternative to costly disposal services.
Cost effective personal collection service. (No access to transport / very large mattress / multiple mattress for collection from a home.

Many people store unwanted mattresses for months because they are unsure how to dispose of them responsibly.

This initiative removes that barrier and provides a simple solution.

Working Together for Cleaner Communities

Illegal dumping of mattresses continues to affect many communities throughout Ireland.

Dumped mattresses spoil neighbourhoods, damage green spaces, attract additional waste and increase clean-up costs.

The partnership between Recycle IT and South Dublin County Council aims to encourage responsible disposal by making recycling easy, accessible and free.

By providing both central and community-based collection options, the initiative helps remove barriers that can sometimes lead to illegal dumping while encouraging greater public participation in recycling. Recycle IT has a long-standing relationship with South Dublin County Council in delivering community recycling initiatives and environmental awareness programmes.

Everyone Can Make a Difference

If you have an unwanted mattress in your home, garage, attic or spare room, now is the perfect opportunity to recycle it responsibly.

From Tuesday, August 4^th until Friday September 25^th, 2026, simply bring your mattress to the Recycle IT recycling centre free of charge or visit one of the authorised community collection events taking place across South Dublin.

Together, Recycle IT, South Dublin County Council and local residents can recover valuable materials, reduce landfill waste, discourage illegal dumping and create cleaner, greener communities for future generations.

For directions to the recycling facility and updates on community collection dates see below

Recycle IT will be open for free drop off between 9.30am and 3pm on Mondays – Friday. (Recycle IT don’t open on Bank Holidays).

You will find telephone, map and address details here

Tablets – Recylce IT Safely

On July 6, 2026July 13, 2026 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.

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:

Back up anything you want to keep.
Sign out of your accounts.
Delete your files and photos.
Perform a factory reset.
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.

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.

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

Why Proper Electrical Recycling Matters for Our Planet

On May 29, 2026May 22, 2026 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 employment and electrical recycling mission.

Recycle IT is an Irish not-for-profit social enterprise based in Clondalkin, Dublin, that specializes in recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and metals. Established in 2002, the organisation works with households, schools, charities, community groups, and businesses to provide safe and environmentally responsible recycling services across Dublin and surrounding areas.

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. Recycler IT as an electrical, electronic and metal recycler have been verified over a number of years.

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, we must:

Prove that they are making a real positive impact.
Show that they care for workers, communities, and nature.
Be transparent, open, and accountable in our electrical recycling operations.
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 electrical and metal 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 for electrical manufacturing, 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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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 electrical recycling process, reduce pollution, and educate people about waste and sustainability.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not-for-profit, social enterprise established to create employment and promote environmental awareness through electrical 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.

_{Electrical Recycling Team at Recycle IT}

Residential Recycling – Free Electrical Recycling – 12 Tips

On May 26, 2026July 21, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Dublin, Electronic Equipment, Family, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Electrical Recycling Achievements

Consumers recycled a record-breaking 41,730 tonnes of electronic and electrical waste in 2023 – the equivalent of almost 200 forty-foot containers Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland’s annual report shows that approximately 18.1 million appliances were collected for recycling last year – exceeding all European norms.

Residents Recycling Event - Recycle IT — _{Large Electrical Household Appliances – Collected for Recycling by Recycle IT}

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 to make their way into the circular economy.

Community Recycling

Recycle IT want to further encourage communities, householders, families, and children to take action and recycle more old, unwanted or unused stuff from around your home. This includes kettles, cookers, games, batteries, phones, metals, and electronic toys; the list is endless so click here for more. To support we offer free resident association collection in many areas of Dublin.

Recycle IT has a focus on recycling old, once loved electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal. If your cooker, hobs or battery-operated toys, radio or phone is broken or surplus to requirements what do you do? Do you leave them to gather dust in the cupboard, attic or garden shed or do you add them to the weekly rubbish? (out of sight, out of mind) Why not consider recycling now! We will except metal including outdoor heaters, BBQ’s, old bikes, pots, pans and more…

_{Household TVs – Collected for Recycling by Recycle IT}

Impacts

In 2024 Recycle IT through residents associations and community groups offered collections to over 40,000 homes located on roads and in estates across Dublin and surrounding area. The weight of items safely recycled by our team in 2024 totaled well over 700 tons.

Many of us simply don’t realize that items with a plug or battery can be reused, re-purposed or recycled. So if your TV’s, monitors, laptops or washing machine have become obsolete think about the positive impact you can make by recycling with Recycle IT. You can help the environment, sustain jobs and create training opportunities by taking part in our resident’s recycling days.

Recylcing TV's - Recycle IT — _{TV Recycling By Recycle IT}

12 Reasons to avail of Free WEEE Recycle

Recycling conserves resources e.g. metal, plastics, water, fuel.
Recycling reduces clutter and creates space.
Recycling helps reduce Co2 emissions.
Recycling saves energy.
Recycling helps protect the environment e.g climate change
Recycling reduces landfill.
Recycling reduces domestic waste charges.
Recycling helps create and maintain local employment.
Recycling encourages others in your community to recycle.
Recycling using official locations or collections reduces the dumping of waste.
Recycling helps our children learn about sustainability so involve your kids.
Recycling provides access to materials for repurposing and reuse by others

You can drop off your items free of charge with Recycle IT or arrange a residents association collection for you and all your neighbors once loved electronic toys, laptops, PCs, white goods, kitchen appliances, electric gardening tools, TV’s, old video games consoles and lots more.

Once received the items, they can be reused, re-purposed or recycled leading to an overall reduction in the number of electrical items going to landfill or illegally shipped to third world countries. Another real benefit is the fact that our service helps create training and employment opportunities.

Achieved to Date

Hugh reductions in CO2 emissions from fridge freezers.
Over 100 million electrical appliances already collected through WEEE Ireland.
A reduction in harmful batteries ending up in landfill.
Fewer light bulbs found in domestic waste.
Increased employment opportunities.
Better overall environmental awareness.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT an award-winning community recycler wishes to build on Ireland’s recycling success story and helped increase the 10 kg of waste electronic and electrical equipment recycled per person, per year. We are inviting resident associations and community groups including tidy towns to speak with us about arranging a FREE collection in your area over the coming months.

Our recycling service is provided FREE to resident associations and communities in South Dublin, Dublin City and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown with surrounding areas in Wicklow and Kildare also serviced so please give us a call to learn more and arrange a residents collection for your area.

Please call us on 01 4578321 or email info@recycleit.ie.

Recycle IT is supported by Dormant Accounts to deliver our scheduled community and residents recycling collection service.

_{Supported by Dormant Accounts}

Electrical Appliance Recycling – Drop free!

On May 22, 2026May 25, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Awards, Collections, Dublin, 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.

Electrical and Electronic Equipment or Parts using in Electrical and Electronic Equipment — _{Tons of Electrical and Electronic Waste}

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.

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!

What 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.

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

Learn more about free recycling for school and colleges 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 Social Enterprise Award 2025}

Dublin On-Street Waste Compactors

On May 14, 2026May 25, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Awards, Climate change, Family, Green Technology, News, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Something New!

Dublin City Council has introduced new waste compactors on Fownes Street Upper and St Stephen’s Green to help keep our city cleaner and remove rubbish bags from pavements.

These easy-to-use compactors can hold much more waste than regular bin bags, helping to keep streets clean, tidy, and free from litter. They compress loose garbage into dense, uniform blocks, often the size of a small caravan. By replacing plastic rubbish bags left on pavements, the compressor help prevent bags being ripped open by birds or animals and reduce illegal dumping.

_{‘No More Rubbish Excuses’ campaign by Dublin City Council}

Reason!

The compactors are designed for busy city streets and are part of Dublin City Council’s plan to create a cleaner, safer, and more attractive city for everyone.

Residents and businesses in the pilot area are now asked to use these compactors or arrange suitable collection options with their waste provider instead of leaving bags on the street.

The new system will help remove up to 1,000 plastic bags from Dublin streets every day, creating cleaner, safer, and more attractive public spaces for everyone.

No More Rubbish

The compactors are easy to use and are part of Dublin City Council’s wider “No More Rubbish Excuses” campaign to reduce litter and improve waste management across the city.

Please remember:

Do not leave rubbish bags on pavements
Use the new compactors responsibly
Do not place electrical items or batteries in the compactors
Help keep the area outside your home or business clean

By working together, we can create a cleaner, greener Dublin for residents, businesses, and visitors alike so please use the compactors responsibly and help keep Dublin clean.

_{Waste compactor at Fownes Street Upper D2}

About Recycle 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.

Reduce and Reuse Tips for the Workplace – Sustainable Practices

On May 5, 2026May 25, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Awards, Climate change, Dublin, Electronic Equipment, Family, Green Technology, metal, News, Reuse, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Reduce and Reuse means Change

Reducing and reusing materials in workplaces like, schools, colleges, shops, offices and warehouses is one of the simplest ways to cut costs, reduce waste, and run a more sustainable operation. Small changes, done consistently, can make a real difference across your daily, repeatable, step-by-step routines you follow to get your work done, from start to finish. Think about how to include reuse and recycling into daily routines.

Recycling and reusing at work shows both staff and customers that your organisation takes responsibility for its impact. It signals that sustainability isn’t just a policy—it’s part of everyday decisions.

_{Source: Born Again Pallets – www.bornagainpallets.com}

When you encourage a culture of awareness, teamwork, and pride in doing things properly, colleagues are more likely to follow good reduce, reuse and recycling practices. Once supported and normalized in the workplace, reuse and recycling efforts will take hold, continue and extend into home life!

For customers, it builds trust. It shows your business is forward-thinking, responsible, and committed to reducing waste—not just talking about it.

Overall, visible recycling and reuse demonstrate leadership, accountability, and a genuine commitment to sustainability.

_{Reusable Cable Tie – www.besbet.co.uk}

21 practical reuse tips

Reuse sturdy boxes for internal shipments and storage.
Turn used pallets into shelving or workbenches.
Refill and reuse printer cartridges where possible.
Use both sides of paper before recycling.
Repurpose old folders for internal documents.
Store small parts in cleaned, reused containers.
Reuse bubble wrap and packing materials.
Turn damaged pallets into repair parts.
Share surplus supplies between departments.
Reuse cable ties and fasteners when safe.
With permission use scrap wood for projects at home.
Reassign older equipment to less demanding tasks.
Use refillable water bottles and dispensers.
Repurpose jars or tins for tool storage.
Reuse envelopes for internal mail.
Set up a reuse station for shared materials.
Repair items before replacing them.
Donate usable surplus equipment.
Reuse signage by updating inserts instead of replacing frames.
Use washable cloths instead of disposable wipes.
Encourage staff to suggest new reuse ideas.

_{Try Green Bubble: Sustainable Packaging Solutions – www.green-bubble.ie}

Change Mindset

Building a reuse mindset doesn’t require major investment—just awareness and consistency. Over time, these habits reduce waste, save money, and create a more efficient and environmentally responsible workplace for everyone involved in daily operations.

Consistent reuse is important. When every team member follows the agreed small actions daily, waste is reduced, costs are saved, and the workplace becomes more efficient and environmentally responsible over time while encouraging stronger environmental awareness and teamwork.

For example, Recycle IT are well aware that recycling metal is crucial for sustainability, as it allows materials like aluminum and steel to be reprocessed indefinitely without losing quality. By collecting and sending metal for melting and purifying, we cut CO2 emissions and save significant energy compared to mining virgin ore. It reduces landfill waste, protects resources, and supports a cleaner, more sustainable future for businesses and local communities alike.

About Recycle IT

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

Authorised and Eco-Friendly Recycling for Schools and Colleges

On May 1, 2026May 22, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Climate change, Collections, Dublin, Family, News, Social EnterpriseLeave a comment

Recycling Benefits

Educational institutions in Dublin and surrounding areas now have the opportunity to safely recycle outdated electrical, electronic, and metal equipment. Our initiative provides a secure and responsible way to declutter facilities while creating valuable space for educational purposes.”

_{Authorised Electrical and Electronic Recyclng for Schools}

“It is important for schoolchildren, teenagers and adults to witness electronic recycling, as it helps them understand the value of protecting the environment by reducing electronic waste. Recycling also educates all age groups on conserving resources, preventing pollution, and taking responsibility for the proper disposal of old electronics—contributing to a healthier planet for everyone. This may be the perfect time to involve your students in some positive recycling activities.”

Reducing old electronics keeps harmful materials out of landfills, protecting the environment. When handled by authorised professionals, these materials are safely dismantled and processed using eco-friendly methods.

_{Mixed IT Equipment form Dublin School}

Free Collection Service

Our service is offered free and is dedicated to reducing large amounts of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) which accumulates in classrooms, canteens, stores, and labs over time.

Recycle IT, is a community-based social enterprise, offering a simple and efficient route to recycle unused electrical and electronic items. After collection, items are broken down and recovered materials are processed for use in the manufacture of a new product. Your recycling helps sustain our organization and create employment and training opportunities.

The free collection service helps safely divert e-waste from landfills and makes use of old items that may have been thrown away. The types of items usually collected include computers, kitchen equipment, phone systems, mobile phones, laptops, tablets, monitors, projectors, printers, battery-operated toys, televisions, and radios. Please click here for a full list

Our team can offer a cost-effective collection to a school further away. The fee charged covers operational costs related to the collection.

Our learning sector collection service is organised as part of our free community collection service. Recycle IT also support WEEE Ireland with collections of batteries from schools around Dublin which in turn supports the work of LauraLynn Children’s Hospice.

During the last 18 months, our teams have worked with hundreds of schools, colleges, and youth training organisations all over Dublin to achieve an overall increase in electrical equipment collected for recycling with a similar trend in 2025.

We are delighted to be in a position to help your staff, students and organisation safely recycle all types of electrical, electronic and pure metal equipment so do email us. Recycling with us directly creates real training opportunities and maintains employment levels within our social enterprise.

Register an interest

Schools, colleges, and trainers of all types in Dublin and the surrounding area are welcome to register an interest: Simply complete a registration form by clicking here or call our team on 01 4578321 Monday – Friday. Once you call or email we can help you plan and schedule your e-waste collection which will help:

Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators.
Conserves natural resources such as water and minerals.
Increases economic well-being and creates local training and employment opportunities.
Prevents pollution by reducing the need to collect new raw materials.
Saves energy.

_{School Collections Supported by WEEE 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.

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

Office Recycling Tips for a Greener Office

On April 30, 2026May 27, 2026 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

Buy supplies in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
Create a clear recycling station with labelled bins for paper, plastic, ink, and electronics.
Your workplace should be encouraged to go paperless.
Use digital signatures to avoid printing documents for signing.
Only print if there is a real need for a hard copy.
Meeting clients or colleagues online to save resources. It’s the norm now!
Use e-mail or instant messages to save paper, time and money.
Share team and event calendars.
Draft documents can be reviewed on-screen before emailing.
Reports and presentation should be electronic only
If paper is required, use FSC–certified paper
Research purchasing printers which print double-sided copies only.
Photocopy and print double-sided.
Scrap paper can be used to make note pads to take phone messages.
Introduce a centralized filing system. This reduces multiple files,
Enable the reuse of paper envelopes by putting a label on top of the old address.
Cut down on excess equipment sitting in the store, going out of date, e.g. electrical and electronic office equipment.
Regularly service equipment, particularly computers, photocopiers, and printers, to prolong their lifespan.
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.
Employees should regularly empty out their desk and return any unwanted office supplies to the stationery cupboard.
Free or fee-based online newspaper subscription can reduce the amount of paper to be recycled.
Cancel any unwanted magazine or newspaper subscriptions to avoid unwanted waste accumulating.
Reuse binders and file folders.
Office announcements can be posted online, sent via email or posted once in a centralized monitor or TV screen.
Consider renting equipment that you use only occasionally rather than having to store it in the workplace.
Encourage colleagues to bring lunch to work in reusable containers.
Encourage management to have reusable silverware, plates and cups and a small coffee station in the office.
Research and purchase products with less packaging or with no packaging at all.
Install filtered water rather than a water cooler.
Give your team a reusable water bottle.
Offer secure bike parking.
Source used desks, chairs and lockers (if required).
Unplug equipment when not in use or overnight.
Work from home when possible.
Offer unused or surplus items to other organisation for reuse.
Think about how you can have a green work party or events during the year.
Set printers to default to black-and-white to reduce ink usage.
Use refillable ink cartridges instead of single-use ones.
Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting in your workplace
Encourage staff to use reusable coffee cups instead of disposable ones.
Choose rechargeable batteries instead of disposable ones.
Donate or sell old furniture instead of throwing it away.
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 Metal Now!

On April 13, 2026May 26, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Climate change, metal, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Every Day Life:

Metal is part of almost everything we use every day. It is in our food cans, kitchen tools, electronics, cars, bikes, scooters, gardening tools, and buildings. When these items reach the end of their life, the metal inside them is still valuable. Instead of throwing it away, we can recycle it and use it again. Metal is one of the most useful materials to recycle, and doing so makes a real difference for the environment and the economy.

One of the most important things to know is that steel, iron, aluminum, and copper can be recycled again and again without losing its quality. This means it does not weaken or wear out during the recycling process. Materials like aluminium and steel can be melted down and turned into new products over and over. Because of this, metal is one of the most sustainable materials we have.

_{Office Metal / Storage Metal – Recycle IT}

Facts

Recycling steel, iron, aluminum, and copper saves a huge amount of energy. For example, recycling aluminium uses up to 95% less energy than making it from raw materials. Steel recycling can save around 60–70% of the energy compared to producing new steel. These energy savings help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are a major cause of climate change. Using recycled metal also means we need less mining, which protects natural landscapes and reduces pollution.

There are many types of metal we can recycle at home and in our communities. Common items include aluminium cans, steel food cans, foil wrap and foil trays (if clean) can all be placed in the Green Bin.

Larger items such as washing machines, ovens, bicycles, and even furniture like steel table legs or office chairs can also be recycled. Electrical items often contain valuable metals like copper, aluminium, and steel, so they should always be taken to proper recycling centres.

Some facts help show just how powerful recycling can be. Recycling one aluminium can saves enough energy to power a television for a few hours. Steel is one of the most recycled materials globally, with high recycling rates in many countries. Aluminium is also widely recycled and can return to shop shelves as a new can in as little as 60 days.

The metal recycling industry in the European Union offers 310,000 green, local, and non-outsourceable jobs across all Member States. Source: European Recycling Industries’ Confederation (EuRIC).
Ireland achieved a 58% recycling rate for metal packaging in 2021.
According to 2023 data, approximately 357,947 tonnes of metal were recycled, largely related to construction and demolition activity.
You can identify metal types using a magnet; steel is magnetic, while aluminum is not.
Roughly 40% of the world’s copper demand is met using recycled material.
Recycling steel reduces related CO2 emissions by 58% compared to primary production.
A single computer contains around 1.5 kg of copper, making electronics recycling highly valuable.
The automotive industry is the largest consumer of recycled scrap metal.
91% of metals from end-of-life vehicles were recycled.

Best Use

You can learn to identify metallic substance at home. A simple magnet test works well—steel is magnetic, while aluminium is not. This can be a fun and educational activity for children, helping them understand recycling in a hands-on way. Knowing what materials you have makes it easier to sort and recycle correctly.

It is important to remember that metallic materials are limited resource. Metals come from ores in the ground, and mining them takes time, energy, and effort. By recycling, we make better use of what we already have instead of constantly taking more from the earth. This helps protect natural resources for future generations.

Another benefit of metal recycling is reducing landfill waste. Metallic items that end up in landfill can take a very long time to break down. By recycling them instead, we reduce the pressure on landfill sites and prevent harmful substances from affecting soil and water. Clean recycling habits can make a big difference in keeping our environment safe.

WhatsApp Image 2026-04-13 at 11.25.02 AM (3) — _{Steel Chairs for Recycling}

Change

Remember, there are simple changes we can make to improve how we use metal. For example, choosing reusable containers instead of disposable foil trays can reduce waste. When metal items do break or wear out, we should always think about recycling them instead of throwing them away. Many recycling centres accept a wide range of metal items, and some even offer collection services for larger appliances.

Working together as a community can make metallic recycling even more effective. Families, schools, and workplaces can all play a role by collecting and sorting metal waste properly. Small actions, when done by many people, add up to a big impact.

In summary, metal is too valuable to waste. It can be recycled endlessly, saves large amounts of energy, reduces pollution, and supports jobs. By recycling metal items—from small cans to large appliances—we help protect the environment and make better use of our resources. Next time you are about to throw away something made of steel stop and think: can it be recycled instead?

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.

Generating Electronic Waste!

On April 8, 2026April 15, 2026 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.

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 Logo}

Irelands Circular Economy Strategy

On February 26, 2026 By JMCEIn Awards, Climate change, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Green Technology, News, Social Enterprise, sustainabilityLeave a comment

Wasting Less, Reusing More

The Circular Economy Strategy 2026–2028 launched on 24 February 2026 and sets out how Ireland will reduce waste, reuse more materials and support a more sustainable economy.

Ireland’s Circular Economy Strategy 2026–2028 is a plan to help the country waste less and use resources better. Right now, we mostly follow a “take–make–throw away” model.

This strategy aims to move Ireland towards a system where materials are reused, repaired, and kept in use for as long as possible.

What the strategy wants to achieve

Use more recycled materials: Increase Ireland’s circular material use rate to 12% by 2030.
Grow the economy in a smarter way: Use fewer new raw materials and make better use of what we already have.
Support businesses and jobs: Help Ireland become a leader in sustainable design, manufacturing, and new circular business ideas.
Be fair to everyone: Make sure communities and workers benefit from these changes.
Help people make greener choices: Make sustainable living easier and more affordable.
Support local councils: Help communities create local reuse and recycling projects.
Use digital tools: Encourage businesses to track products and materials better using tools like digital product passports.

Why this matters

The Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022 supports Ireland’s move towards reducing waste and keeping materials in use longer. European laws also support this shift.

The strategy focuses on key areas like construction, farming, retail, packaging, textiles, and electronics. These sectors will work on reducing waste and increasing repair and reuse.

In 2024, a national study called the Circularity Gap Report Ireland found that only 2.7% of materials used in Ireland come from recycled sources. That means over 97% come from new, raw materials. The report shows that Ireland still relies heavily on a wasteful system — but it also shows that moving to a circular economy could reduce carbon emissions, strengthen the economy, and improve long-term security.

In simple terms, this strategy is about wasting less, reusing more, cutting carbon, and building a stronger, fairer Ireland for the future. Get the report here.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is the only Community Electronic Recycling Social Enterprise in Dublin providing a community collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Recycle IT offers collection services to homes and organisations across Dublin and surrounding areas each year collecting a range of WEEE including monitors, televisions and much more. If your a school, college, charity or community group based in Dublin or a surrounding area we invite you to contact us about our FREE colleciton service.

Our award-winning services are supported by South Dublin Country Council, and South Dublin Country Partnership and provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. We are authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authority.

Visit our website for further details or learn more about reuse month here

_{Recycle IT 2025 – Circular and Social Enterprise Awards}

Gaming Consoles – Recycle Safely

On November 17, 2025May 14, 2026 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.

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:

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

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}

UN’s Global E-waste Monitor 2024 reports

On October 28, 2025 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Todays E-waste World

The world is creating electronic waste—such as old phones, laptops, and TVs—much faster than it is being recycled. In 2022, we produced 62 million tonnes of e-waste, which is 82% more than in 2010. Only 22% of that waste was properly collected and recycled, while the rest was lost or dumped, wasting $62 billion worth of valuable materials.

E-waste contains toxic substances like mercury that can harm both the environment and human health. If nothing changes, global e-waste is expected to grow to 82 million tonnes by 2030, while recycling rates may drop to just 20%. This growing problem is driven by people buying and replacing electronics more often, products becoming harder to repair, shorter product lifespans, and poor waste management systems.

The UN reports that if countries could raise recycling rates to 60% by 2030, the world would gain huge economic and health benefits, saving more than $38 billion.

The world also remains highly dependent on a few countries for rare earth materials—metals essential for green technologies like electric cars and solar panels—yet only about 1% of these valuable elements are recovered from e-waste.

18 Actions That Can Help

Governments & Policymakers

Create or strengthen e-waste laws to require proper recycling.
Offer further support to achieve national recycling targets.
Continue to track progress.
Invest in recycling facilities and safe waste collection systems.
Encourage eco-design – make products easier to repair, reuse, and recycle.
Ban illegal e-waste exports to developing countries.

Manufacturers & Companies

Design for durability and repairability (longer product life).
Offer take-back or recycling programs for old devices.
Use recycled materials in new products.
Provide spare parts and repair manuals to consumers.

Individuals & Consumers

Repair before replacing electronic devices.
Donate or resell working electronics instead of throwing them away.
Recycle properly at certified e-waste collection centers.
Buy refurbished or energy-efficient electronics.
Reduce gadget upgrades — use what you have longer.

Global & Community Efforts

Increase awareness about e-waste dangers and recycling options.
Support circular economy initiatives – reuse, repair, recycle.
Encourage global cooperation to share recycling technology and expertise.

You can read the report here.

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 offer services to homes, communities and organisations in Dublin and surrounding areas.

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

Sustainable Business Impact Awards 2025

On October 8, 2025 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

For over twenty years, the Sustainable Business Impact Awards have celebrated and showcased the best examples of sustainable business practices in Ireland.

These awards recognize organisations that are making a real difference through their commitment to people, communities, and the planet. Each year, winners across twelve categories demonstrate how Irish businesses are embedding sustainability into their everyday work, showing that positive environmental and social change can go hand in hand with good business.

In 2025, Recycle IT (Ireland) was honored to win the Sustainable Impact by a Medium Business Award. This recognition highlights the organisation’s ongoing efforts to promote recycling, protect the environment, and support communities across Dublin and in surrounding areas.

Recycle IT is a community-based social enterprise that collects, recycles, and reuses waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). The organisation works to prevent useful materials from ending up in landfill, helping to reduce pollution and save valuable resources. Equally important, Recycle IT creates local employment, provides work experience and training opportunities, and raises awareness about the benefits of recycling and sustainable living.

Winning the Sustainable Impact Award means a great deal to everyone involved with Recycle IT. It reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire team, who are passionate about making recycling accessible and practical for households, schools, businesses, and community organisations. Every television, computer, kettle, or phone collected by Recycle IT contributes to a cleaner environment and a more circular economy, where waste is seen as a resource that can be recovered and reused.

The photo above captures a proud moment for the Recycle IT team. From left to right are Ian Talbot from Chambers Ireland, Mark, Una, and Gerard from Recycle IT, and Margaret Considine from Chambers Ireland. Their smiles reflect not only the joy of winning but also the shared commitment to sustainability that connects all those involved in the awards.

Recycle IT would like to extend sincere thanks to Chambers Ireland, the judges, and everyone who entered the awards this year. The Sustainable Business Impact Awards are about more than just recognition—they are about celebrating collective progress and inspiring others to take action. Each business, no matter how big or small, can make a difference by reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting their employees, and engaging with their community.

For Recycle IT, sustainability is not a short-term goal but an ongoing journey. The organisation continues to expand its services, invest in greener processes, and build partnerships with local authorities, schools, and voluntary groups. By working together, they aim to create a culture of recycling and reuse that benefits both people and the planet.

The Sustainable Impact Award is a reminder that environmental and community action are most effective when driven from the ground up. Through small, consistent efforts—like recycling electronic waste, educating others, and supporting local jobs—Recycle IT is helping to build a cleaner, fairer, and more sustainable future for everyone.

_{Dara Calleary, TD, Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.}

Winning this award is both a recognition of what has been achieved and a motivation to keep improving. The Recycle IT team remains committed to innovation, collaboration, and social responsibility. They believe that every community can become more sustainable through shared action and awareness.

Recycle IT is grateful to all partners, supporters, and customers who have made their success possible. Together, they have shown that social enterprises can lead the way in creating positive, lasting change.

Thank you to Chambers Ireland for organising such a meaningful event. It was a wonderful evening, a fantastic celebration of Irish business, and a proud moment for Recycle IT and all those who care about sustainability and community impact.

Great event, great award, and a great step forward for recycling in the community!

About Recycle IT

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

_{Recylce IT is EcoMerit Certified}

The Benefits of Recycling Pull-Up Banners

On October 3, 2025June 18, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Pull-up banners are used by many organisations across Dublin. They are helpful tools for events, promotions, and public information. However, once these banners are out of date, they are often stored and forgotten. Many are kept in cupboards or storerooms for years. Over time, they take up space and collect dust. But what if we started to recycle them instead? Recycling pull-up banners has many benefits for organisations and the environment.

Pull-up Banners - Recycling for Reuse — _{Pull-Up Banners – Recycling for Reuse}

1. Reducing Waste

The first big benefit of recycling pull-up banners is reducing waste. Most of these banners are made from plastic and metal. If they are thrown away, they often end up in landfills where they do not break down easily. Recycling helps to reduce this waste and keeps these materials out of our environment. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference over time.

2. Saving Space

Old banners take up storage space in offices, community buildings, and schools. By recycling them, organisations can free up this space for other, more useful things. This helps to create cleaner, more organised workplaces. It also reminds people to keep only what they truly need.

3. Reusing Materials

Pull-up banners contain materials that can be reused. The metal frame and poles can often be used again once a new banner insert is fitted. Triest Press, Ireland’s leading social enterprise print & design house is helping with this. They are passionate about producing high-quality digital print and design while making a positive social impact.

The banner material itself is usually made of PVC, vinyl, or polyester, and can sometimes be turned into bags, covers, or other useful products. We would be happy to work with an organisation wishing to source these material for reuse. Reuse gives these materials a new life instead of letting them go to waste.

4. Encouraging Environmental Responsibility

When an organisation recycles its old banners, it shows that it cares about the environment. This sets a good example for staff, customers, and the wider community. It encourages others to think more carefully about how they dispose of old items. Every small action adds up, and recycling banners is a great way to lead by example.

5. Supporting the Circular Economy

Recycling helps build a circular economy. This means that instead of throwing things away, we find ways to keep materials in use for as long as possible. Recycling banners supports this idea. It creates demand for recycling services and products made from recycled materials. It also helps to reduce the need for new raw materials, which uses a lot of energy and natural resources.

6. Cost Savings

While there may be a small cost to recycle banners, it can save money in the long run. Storing large numbers of unused banners takes up space that could be used more effectively. Also, buying new banners for every event is expensive. Some companies now offer banner systems where only the printed part is replaced, which can be more cost-effective and greener.

7. Creating Awareness

A recycling project for old banners can raise awareness among staff and the public. It gets people thinking about how they use and reuse materials. It might even inspire new recycling or sustainability projects in the future.

Finally

Collecting and recycling pull-up banners can be very cost-effective and helps create and maintain worthwhile training and employment opportunities in our community.

You can visit your local drop-off point at Recycle IT in Dublin 22 or you avail of a city wide collection service. This low-cost recycling for reuse pilot project reduces waste while promoting sustainability for organisations.

In summary, recycling old pull-up banners has many benefits. It reduces waste, saves space, supports the environment, and shows leadership. With so many unused banners stored around Dublin, now is the perfect time for organisations to take action. A small step today can lead to big change tomorrow.

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.

Sustainable Impact by a Medium Business – Recycle IT – Recycling in the Community

Dublin Mattress Recycling – Final Weeks

On September 12, 2025September 29, 2025 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

A Positive Recycling Upswing

South Dublin has seen a remarkable surge in mattress recycling this August and September, thanks to the Mattress Amnesty initiative. With the help of Recycle IT and the strong backing of South Dublin County Council, more households than ever are taking the opportunity to responsibly dispose of their old mattresses—and the results are already making a difference.

And now, you will have a one time opportunity to recycled household hazardous liquids, mattresses and electrics FREE on Sept 27th – See the flyer below.

What’s been happening

The amnesty, which began on August 11th 2025 and runs until Saturday, September 27th has allowed residents across the county to drop off unwanted mattresses for free—no fees, no hassle.
Multiple drop-off locations and community collection events were organised to make things convenient.
As a side-benefit, the scheme is helping reduce instances of fly-tipping and illegal dumping of bulky items. When disposing of large mattresses is made easy and free, far fewer end up abandoned in fields, laneways or beside roads.

Why this upswing matters

Environmental savings: Mattresses are bulky, heavy, and difficult to break down. By recycling materials (metal springs, foam, wood, fabric), the amnesty reduces waste going into landfills and conserves resources. Recycle IT
Cleaner communities: Fewer dumped mattresses means less blight, less risk, and — just as importantly — lower clean-up costs for local authorities.
Greater awareness: Many people report that they simply didn’t know recycling mattresses was possible or affordable before. The amnesty has raised awareness about how easy proper disposal can be when supports are in place.

Final collection days: Don’t miss out

If you haven’t yet taken advantage of the amnesty, there are still two final chances to recycle your mattress freely:

Wednesday September 17th 20025 – public collection day – Killinarden Community Centre, D24 WV6V.
Saturday 27th September 2025 – final public collection day – South Dublin County Council County Hall, D24 A3XC.
Friday Sept 26th 2025 – final drop off day at Recycle IT, D22 TK37.

This initiative has now CLOSED – You will get further detials here.

Make sure to check the drop-off locations and times in advance. Bring your mattress, help South Dublin stay clean, green and sustainable.

Just to note: On Saturday Sept 27th you can recycle mattresses, household electrical equipment and hazardous liquids free with a drop off to the car park at South Dublin County Council County Hall, D24 A3XC.

Household hazardous liquids are everyday products that can be harmful to people, pets, or the environment if not disposed of safely. Common examples include:

Paints and thinners
Pesticides and weed killers
Cleaning agents (bleach, ammonia, strong detergents)
Solvents and adhesives
Automotive fluids (oil, antifreeze, brake fluid)

Big thanks where due

A huge thanks to South Dublin County Council for making this Mattress Amnesty happen again this year — for funding it, organizing it, and promoting it. Recycle IT are delighted to run the logistics: the drop-off sites, the community events, and all the behind-the-scenes work. The initiative showcases what’s possible when council, community organisations, and residents all pull together.

Every mattress recycled is one less going into landfill or dumped irresponsibly, and that’s thanks to you as much as the organizers. Let’s finish strong in the coming weeks.

About Recycle IT

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

Authorised Mattress Amnesty 2025

On August 5, 2025May 28, 2026 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Free Household Mattress Recycling

Starting on August 11th, 2025, South Dublin residents will have a great opportunity to get rid of old, unwanted mattresses for free. This new Mattress Recycling Amnesty is supported by South Dublin County Council and operated by Recycle IT, a community-based recycling service.

_{Mattress Recycling Work at Recycle IT}

This special initiative means that people living in South Dublin and sounding areas can drop off old mattresses without paying any fees. It will help households dispose of bulky waste in a safe and environmentally friendly way during a number of weeks across August and September 2025.

What is a Mattress Amnesty?

A mattress amnesty is a time-limited program that allows people to bring old mattresses to a drop-off point for free recycling. Normally, getting rid of a mattress can cost money or involve arranging special collections. But during this amnesty, you can bring your mattress to a collection point without any charge.

Why Recycle Mattresses?

Mattresses are large, heavy, and difficult to dispose of. Many old mattresses end up in landfills or are illegally dumped. This is bad for the environment and costs councils time and money to clean up. Recycling mattresses is a much better solution.

_{Mattress Community Collection with Recycle IT}

Mattresses are made from many materials that can be reused. For example:

Steel springs can be melted and reused for metal products.
Foam and fabric can be recycled into insulation or carpet padding.
Wooden frames can be reused for other furniture or broken down for wood chips.

By recycling mattresses, we reduce waste, save resources, and protect the environment. It also helps keep our local area clean and green.

The Benefits of Taking Part

Here are some great reasons to take part in the South Dublin Mattress Amnesty:

It’s Free – You don’t have to pay to recycle your mattress during this event.
It’s Weekly – Open Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 3pm during the amnesty.
It’s Convenient – Multiple drop-off locations will be available throughout South Dublin.
It’s Eco-Friendly – Recycling keeps bulky waste out of landfills and gives materials a second life.
It Reduces Illegal Dumping – Offering free disposal means fewer mattresses dumped on roadsides or in parks.
It Helps the Community – Cleaner neighbourhoods and better waste management help everyone.

Who Can Take Part?

The amnesty is open to residents of South Dublin County and surrounding areas. Households are encouraged to bring clean and dry mattresses to our drop-off site. We generally, standard single, double, king, queen and foam mattresses. If in doubt you can call 01 4578321 with any questions.

_{Mattress Recycling Drop Off at Recycle IT}

Businesses, hotels, or other commercial groups may not be included in this offer, so they should check with Recycle IT directly if they have mattresses to dispose of.

How Recycle IT Helps

Recycle IT is a social enterprise that focuses on recycling electrical and bulky household items. With help from South Dublin County Council, they are managing this amnesty to make sure all collected mattresses are safely broken down and reused.

Recycle IT has experience running similar programs and is committed to helping people recycle in a simple and responsible way.

When and where?

The free mattress drop-off started in mid-August 2025 and ran until Sept 27th 2025. Mattress recycling was be available at Recycle IT, Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 3pm.

This initiative has now CLOSED – You will get further detials here.

There were seven community drop-off events happening across South Dublin. The exact locations and times are listed directly below. The seven events listed will operate between 10am and 1pm over 7 Wednesday starting on August 13th 2025 in Tymon Park, D12.

This initiative has now CLOSED – You will get further detials here.

_{Community Mattress Recycling – Event Days – Click to View}

During this period if you wish to have a cost-effective personal mattress collection from your home in Dublin we can help. Email mail us here

Finally

This free mattress recycling amnesty is a great chance for households to clear out unwanted items without harming the environment. By taking part, you are helping your home, your community, and the planet.

Start preparing now! If you have an old mattress in your shed, spare room, or garden, plan to drop it off for recycling in August. Stay tuned for updates from South Dublin County Council and Recycle IT so you don’t miss out.

Let’s work together to reduce waste and make South Dublin a cleaner, greener place to live!

About Recycle IT

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 has People and Planet First Verification}

EcoMerit Certification for Recycle IT

On July 21, 2025July 21, 2025 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Recycle IT Receives EcoMerit Certification

Recycle IT is proud to share some exciting news – we have received the EcoMerit Certification! This is an important step forward in showing our commitment to the environment and to making the communities we serve better places for everyone.

But what is EcoMerit, and why does it matter? Let us clarify in a simple and easy-to-understand way.

_{EcoMerit Certification Logo}

EcoMerit Certification Explained?

EcoMerit is a trusted environmental certification. It is given to organisations that work hard to reduce their impact on the environment. This means using less energy, cutting down on waste, and making better choices that help protect our planet.

Getting EcoMerit certified means that Recycle IT is meeting high environmental standards. It also shows that we have made a long-term plan to keep improving how we work to be greener and cleaner.

What Did Recycle IT Do to Earn It?

To receive the EcoMerit certification, Recycle IT looked closely at everything we do – from how we use energy to how we manage waste and water.

Here are some of the steps we’ve taken:

Reduced Energy Use: We worked to lower the amount of electricity we use every day. This helps reduce pollution and saves money too!
Reused and Recycled More: As a community recycling organisation, we already recycle a lot. But we found ways to improve even more, especially when it comes to safely handling electronics and household appliances.
Improved Waste Management: We made sure waste is sorted properly so that as much as possible can be recycled or reused instead of going to landfill.
Set Clear Goals: We created an environmental plan that sets targets for reducing waste and saving energy over the coming years.
Trained Our Team: Everyone at Recycle IT learned about ways to help the environment at work. Teamwork made a big difference.

Why Is This Good News?

Getting the EcoMerit Certification is good news for many reasons:

It’s Good for the Planet: Everything we do to reduce waste, save energy, and recycle more helps the environment.
It Builds Trust: The certificate shows that Recycle IT is serious about protecting nature. People and organisations who work with us know they are supporting a green company.
It Inspires Others: We hope our work encourages other organisations and people to take simple steps that protect the Earth.
It Supports Our Community: By recycling safely and helping people recycle old items, we keep harmful waste out of landfills and create local jobs.
It Supports Our Team: It is good for the staff team because it creates ongoing awareness, a cleaner, safer workplace and it shows we all care about the environment. It empowers our team to make a positive impact both at work and in their personal lives

What’s Next?

The EcoMerit certificate is not the end of our journey – it’s just the beginning! We will continue to look for new ways to protect the environment. We’ll keep working with our community, staff, and partners to do better every day.

The EcoMerit Certification shows that Recycle IT is doing things the right way – by putting people and the planet first. Together, we can continue to build a cleaner, healthier future for everyone.

Let’s keep recycling, reusing, and reducing waste – and let’s keep making a difference, one small step at a time!

Final Words

We want to say a big thank you to everyone who helps make Recycle IT more environmentally friendly. Your support made this recognition possible.

A special thanks goes to the Irish Social Enterprise Network, the other participants across Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Italy, and the EU GreenBoost4WISEs program. This program, launched in 2024, and gave social enterprises like ours a great chance to learn and grow.

It helped us take real steps to become more sustainable—making sure our work, especially in areas like energy, waste and resource use, can keep going without harming nature or the needs of future generations.

About Recycle IT

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

_{Mixed Electrical Equipment for Safe Recycling @ Recycle IT}

Data Destruction Safety and Recycling!

On April 24, 2025November 10, 2025 By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Personal Computers Today!

For the full year 2024, PC vendors shipped 262.7 million PCs, up 1% from 2023. The personal computer (PC) market is experiencing growth driven by factors like remote work, digital learning, and gaming, with global revenue projected to reach over $86 billion by 2034. This is a hugh amount of personal computers.

_{Source: International Data Corporation (IDC)}

On the other side, recycling figures from WEEE Ireland for the last three years reveal that for every ten new tech products sold in Ireland, only four are eventually coming back for recycling.

WEEE Ireland research, completed in 2023 has found that recyclers have concerns about personal data which is preventing one in five adults recycling their old and unused tech items and a further 22% keep them as back-up, just in case something happens the new item.

When people decide not to recycle their old equipment, the recycling take-back rate declines. Since 2020 the rate has stood still at 40% – well below the national e-waste target of 65% as set in the waste electrical and electronic equipment directive (WEEE).

_{Computers for Breakdown and Safe Recylcing at Recycle IT}

The CEO of the WEEE Ireland compliance scheme, Leo Donovan, has urged consumers to dig out old and broken tech and their accessories for recycling.

WEEE Ireland estimated, an average of six million tech items – including mobiles, laptops, tablets, printers, cables, and chargers – were sold each year over the last three years so there must be old items on every house in Ireland which can be recycled.

Safe Recycling and Secure Data Disposal in Ireland

Our rapidly advancing use of electronic devices has become an integral part of our home and work lives. With an estimated six million tech items sold each year, many devices including computers, small office servers, mobile phones, and tablets store vast amounts of sensitive information. As we embrace all this convenience it is crucial to understand the significance of data safety when reselling older items, offering items for reuse, or recycling devices. Recycle IT can help.

Protecting Personal Privacy:

When we use electronic devices, we often store personal information such as names, addresses, and contact details. In the wrong hands, this data can be misused for identity theft or fraud. Recycling your old gadgets without properly disposing of the data poses a risk to your personal privacy. Ensuring secure data disposal safeguards you and your loved ones from potential harm.

_{Data Safety / Recylce Wisely}
_{Photo from Pexel.com – Photo by Fernando Arcos}

Compliance with Data Protection Laws:

Ireland, like many other countries, has strict data protection laws to safeguard individuals’ privacy. Disposing of electronic devices without considering the data they contain can lead to violations of these laws. By responsibly handling data during the recycling process, you not only protect yourself but also adhere to legal requirements, avoiding potential fines or legal consequences.

Preventing Business Data Breaches:

Small offices and organisations often store multiple types of sensitive data on old computers and servers. Improper disposal of these devices can lead to data breaches, compromising confidential information. Such breaches can harm the reputation of businesses and result in financial losses. Secure data disposal practices are essential for protecting the integrity of business operations and maintaining trust with clients and partners.

Environmental Responsibility:

Beyond the digital realm, electronic devices also impact the environment. Recycling helps prevent electronic waste from ending up in landfills, reducing the ecological footprint. However, overlooking data safety in the recycling process can have unintended consequences. Ensuring secure data disposal while recycling contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to e-waste management.

_{Recycle IT – Safe Electronic Recycling}

Encouraging Responsible E-Waste Recycling:

Proper data disposal practices also play a vital role in promoting responsible e-waste recycling. When individuals and businesses prioritize the secure handling of data during device recycling, it sets a positive example for others. This collective effort fosters a culture of responsibility, encouraging more people to dispose of their electronic devices thoughtfully.

Supporting Circular Economy Initiatives:

Ireland, like many countries, is striving towards a circular economy where resources are reused and recycled. Secure data disposal is a key aspect of this circular approach, ensuring that devices can be safely refurbished or recycled without compromising sensitive information. By supporting circular economy initiatives, individuals and businesses contribute to a more sustainable and efficient use of resources.

It’s worth remembering to strike the balance between data safety and proactively recycling electronic devices. We really should recycle electronic deceives to keep to circular economy going but we must also protect personal privacy, ensures compliance with data protection laws, and prevent data breaches.

Promoting environmental responsibility, encourages responsible e-waste recycling, and supports circular economy initiatives. By adopting secure data disposal practices, we not only contribute to a safer digital environment but also play a role in building a more sustainable and responsible future for Ireland and beyond.

Read more on the WEEE Ireland findings 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 Recycling Requirements and permit details are available here.

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

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