Tag: recycling

Unauthorised Recycling Collections – Know more!

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Benefits of Authorized E-Waste Recycling in Ireland

In the age of rapidly advancing technology, the importance of responsible electronic waste disposal cannot be overstated. Recycling e-waste prevents toxic substances from entering our bodies and into the environment and reduces the harmful environmental impacts created by new materials. Ireland, like many other countries, faces the challenge of managing electronic waste efficiently.

My Waste – Dumping Poster

In this blog post, we will explore the pitfalls associated with using unauthorized electrical recycling collections in Ireland and shed light on the benefits of opting for authorized services. Additionally, we will delve into the positive impact authorised electrical recycling organizations have on training, employment, and their broader social and economic contributions. Below you with find some of the pitfalls of unauthorised electrical recycling Collections:

Environmental Hazards:

Unauthorised electrical recycling collections often lack the infrastructure to handle electronic waste responsibly. This can lead to environmental hazards, as hazardous materials from improperly disposed electronic devices may contaminate soil and water, posing a significant threat to ecosystems and public health.

Data Security Risks:

With the abundance of sensitive information stored on electronic devices, unauthorized collections present a significant risk to data security. Inadequate data destruction methods can leave personal and confidential information exposed, potentially leading to identity theft or other forms of data misuse.

Legal Implications:

Ireland has strict regulations governing electronic waste disposal. Engaging with unauthorized services may result in legal consequences, including fines and penalties. Authorized electrical recycling services adhere to these regulations, ensuring compliance and safeguarding individuals and businesses from legal repercussions.

Drop Off Safely – Its Free at Recycle IT

Lack of Accountability:

Unauthorized collections operate in a legal grey area, making it challenging to hold them accountable for their actions. This lack of accountability can result in irresponsible disposal practices, further exacerbating environmental and legal concerns.

There are huge benefits related to authorised electrical recycling collections some of which you will find listed below.

Environmental Responsibility:

Authorized electrical recycling services prioritize environmentally sustainable practices. They employ advanced technologies to safely dismantle and recycle electronic devices, reducing the environmental impact of electronic waste and contributing to a greener, healthier planet.

Data Security Assurance:

Authorized services implement robust data destruction measures to ensure the secure disposal of sensitive information. This commitment to data security offers peace of mind to individuals and businesses entrusting their electronic devices for recycling.

Training and Skill Development:

Authorized electrical recycling organizations contribute to the training and skill development of their employees. Workers receive specialized training in electronic waste management, fostering expertise in handling, dismantling, and recycling various types of electronic devices.

Recycle IT Collection Van

Employment Opportunities:

Authorized electrical recycling services create employment opportunities for individuals, contributing to economic growth. The demand for skilled workers in electronic waste management opens doors for those seeking employment in a field that addresses both environmental and technological concerns.

Social and Economic Impact:

Authorized organizations play a pivotal role in the community by promoting responsible waste management practices. They contribute to a circular economy, reducing the reliance on finite resources and creating a sustainable model for future generations.

WEEE Ireland – Recycle for Good

Please Remember

The choice between authorized and unauthorised electrical recycling collections in Ireland extends beyond immediate convenience. Authorised collection support environmental sustainability, data security, legal compliance, and accountability. Opting for authorized services not only ensures responsible electronic waste disposal but also contributes positively to training, employment, and the broader social and economic fabric of the community. As we navigate the complexities of our digital world, making informed choices in electronic waste management becomes increasingly crucial for a sustainable and thriving future.

You can learn more about Illegal Waste Collections 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.

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

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

Recycle IT Pakman Award Winner 2023

Network Electronics – Safe Recycling

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Networking Equipment – Safe Recycling

Recycling electronics including all types of networking equipment used at home, in schools, charities or in business is essential for protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable recovery for reuse. Network devices are found nearly everywhere as they manage data traffic, provide security, and enable connectivity on internal networks or across the internet.

Electronic waste, often called e-waste, includes network items like routers, switches, modems, cables, and other components of networking systems. These items contain valuable materials, but they also pose significant environmental and health risks if not disposed of properly.

Network Equipment

Managing Dublin’s E-Waste

Dublin and surrounding areas like the rest of Ireland, generates a significant amount of electronic waste every year. In 2023, Ireland recycled 41,730 tonnes of e-waste, including computer equipment and other electronics. This is equivalent to approximately 18.1 million devices. Dublin contributed significantly to this effort, with residents recycling thousands of tonnes of electronic waste.

Despite these achievements, there’s room for improvement. A recent report from the Ireland EPA covering 2022 showed that Ireland’s e-waste collection rate had fallen to 51.2%, below the EU target of 65%. This indicates that many electronic items are still being discarded improperly, potentially harming the environment.

Recycling Computer Equipment: Key Statistics

Computers and related networking devices make up a large portion of e-waste. In Ireland, an average of 10 kg of e-waste per person is collected annually. However, it’s estimated that each household in Dublin owns about 5-10 unused electronic items, including old computers and networking devices.

Map of Dublin Area

In 2022, Dublin residents recycled more than 11,000 tonnes of electrical waste, a significant portion of which consisted of computers, printers, and networking equipment. Yet, surveys show that about one in eight people still throw small electronics, including cables and modems, into their general waste bins, where they are not recycled.

Protecting the Environment

Networking equipment often contains hazardous substances, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. When these items are improperly discarded, toxic chemicals can leach into the soil and water, contaminating the environment. This pollution harms wildlife and can even affect human health. Safe recycling ensures that hazardous materials are handled responsibly, preventing them from causing long-term damage to Dublin’s natural surroundings.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 

In addition, recycling helps conserve natural resources. Networking equipment often contains metals like copper, gold, and silver, which are finite resources. By recycling these items, Dublin can reduce the need for mining new materials, which is energy-intensive and environmentally destructive. This contributes to a more sustainable future for the city and its residents.

Reducing Waste in Landfills

Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing types of waste globally. Dublin, as a thriving urban area, generates significant amounts of e-waste annually. Without proper recycling, this waste ends up in landfills or incinerators and releases harmful substances. Recycling large and small e-waste items including networking equipment helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills, keeping Dublin cleaner and more efficient in managing its waste systems.

Supporting the Circular Economy

Safe recycling also supports the circular economy. In a circular economy, products are reused, repaired, or recycled rather than thrown away. By recycling networking equipment, Dublin can recover valuable materials and reintroduce them into the production cycle. This reduces the demand for raw materials and helps create jobs in recycling and refurbishing industries. Such efforts contribute to Dublin’s economic growth while promoting sustainability.

Complying with Regulations

In Ireland, there are strict regulations governing the disposal of e-waste, including networking equipment. These laws aim to ensure that electronic waste is recycled safely and responsibly. By following these regulations, individuals and businesses in Dublin can avoid legal penalties and contribute to the city’s overall waste management goals.

Network Equipment Home and Office

Enhancing Cybersecurity

Improper disposal of networking equipment can also pose cybersecurity risks. Many devices store sensitive information, such as passwords, network configurations, and personal data. If these items are not recycled properly, this data could fall into the wrong hands. Reputable recycling programs ensure that all data is securely wiped or destroyed before the equipment is processed, protecting individuals and businesses from potential security breaches.

Making Recycling Accessible in Dublin

Dublin offers several options for safely recycling electronic networking equipment. Local recycling centres and collection points make it easy for residents to dispose of their e-waste responsibly. Both households and business can recycle equipment safely with Recycle IT, a community recycling service.

What You Can Do

As a resident or business owner in Dublin, you can play a vital role in promoting safe recycling. Start by identifying the electronic items you no longer use. Look to certified recycling projects such a those operated by Recycle IT for help. If the equipment is still functional, consider donating it to charities or schools that might need it. Always ensure that your data is securely erased before recycling or donating your devices.

Team Work @ Recycle IT

Finally

Safe recycling of electronic networking equipment and related items is essential for Dublin City’s environmental, economic, and social well-being. By reducing pollution, conserving resources, supporting the circular economy, and enhancing cybersecurity, recycling plays a crucial role in building a sustainable future. With accessible recycling options and increasing awareness, Dublin’s residents and businesses can work together to ensure a cleaner, greener city for generations to come.

About Recycle IT

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

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

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

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

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

Visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT Collections

Sandyford Business District – Recycling Event

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Pre Christmas Electrical Waste Recycling Morning

Sandyford Business District have arranged a FREE Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment Event on the morning of Wednesday December 11th 2024, to help you clear-out old, unused or damaged electrical items before the start of a new year!

Together with Recycle IT, the team at Sandyford Business District have organized another a community electronic/electrical equipment collection morning on Wednesday December 11th in HUB17 on 17 Corrig Road, Sandyford Business Park, D18N6K8.

Just pop along between 10am and 12 noon to avail of this Free to Recycle Event.

Bring along large and small domestic appliances of all types, they are free to recycle. (Household and electric garden items). See list below for more detail*

Small office electronic equipment is free to recycle. (Computers, laptops, tablets, cables chargers, Keyboards, ETC)

Your will find full lists of items accepted here and you can open the PDF files for great detail.

Remember commerical equipment has a cost for recycling. If you are unsure please call Recycle IT on 01 4578321 before the FREE drop off event.

About Recycle IT

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

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

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

New TV on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

TV’s and More

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great times to buy electronics like TVs, laptops, or smartphones. Discounts can save you a lot of money! Black Friday online sales grew 8% year-over-year (YoY) to $70.9 billion globally in 2023. Statista says, in 2024, over 80 percent of consumers in France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Turkey were planning to make purchases during Black Friday. But what happens to your old or broken electronics? It’s important to recycle them safely to protect the environment. The following might help!

Black Friday Sales

1. Plan Your Purchase

Before heading out to shop, think about what you need. Do you want a bigger TV or a laptop for work? Write a list so you don’t overspend.

2. Research Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Check online stores like Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy. Compare prices to get the best deal on your new TV or gadget. Don’t forget to read reviews before buying!

3. Don’t Throw Away Old Electronics

Old TVs, phones, or laptops should not go in the trash. They contain materials like plastic, glass, and metals. If thrown away, these can harm the environment.

4. Reuse, Donate, or Sell

If your old items still work:

  • Reuse them: Turn an old laptop into a backup or media device.
  • Donate: Give them to schools, charities, or friends.
  • Sell for Reuse: Once wiped, websites like eBay or Done Deal might help.
E-Waste At Recycle IT

5. Recycle Safely

If your items are damaged:

  • Find a local Recycling Centre or many electrical stores accept old electronics for free.
  • E-Waste Events: Some towns and cities hold e-waste collection in the days before Christmas.
  • Manufacturer Takeback: Some brands will take back old products. Check their websites!

6. Benefits of Recycling

  • Save Resources: Recycling allows parts to be reused, saving raw materials.
  • Reduce Pollution: Proper disposal prevents harmful chemicals from leaking into soil or water.
  • Conserve Energy: Making new products from recycled materials uses less energy.

7. Buy Energy-Efficient Electronics

Look for TVs and devices with the Energy Star label. They use less power and save you money on your electricity bill. It’s another way to help the planet

Sustainable Development Goal: No 12

Shop Responsibly – Shop Sustainably

While shopping during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, remember to focus on quality over quantity. Sometimes, the cheapest options aren’t the most durable. A slightly more expensive product might last longer and offer better value in the long run. Additionally, avoid upgrading unnecessarily. If your current electronics are still functional and meet your needs, consider skipping the sale altogether to reduce waste.

Spread Awareness

Share your knowledge about recycling and eco-friendly practices with others. Many people aren’t aware of the harmful effects of e-waste or the options for responsible disposal. Encourage friends and family to recycle their electronics, donate usable items, and buy energy-efficient products.

Finally

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are exciting times to score great deals on electronics, but it’s just as important to think about what happens to the old items you replace. By reusing, donating, selling, or recycling your old electronics, you can reduce waste and help protect the environment. Shopping for energy-efficient devices also contributes to a greener planet. With a little planning, you can enjoy your new purchases while making a positive impact.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is a not-for-profit social enterprise providing collection and drop-off services for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Yearly Recycle IT offered drop-off and collection services to thousands of homes and organisations across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, televisions, toasters, cables, lawnmowers, monitors, microwaves and kettles.

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

Visit our website for further details.

GreenBoost4WISEs – Naples, Italy

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

ReMade Naples

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Naples, the Remade community stands as a shining example of how grassroots efforts can drive environmental and social change. Part of the broader GreenBoost4WISEs initiative, this community is redefining how we approach sustainability, inclusion, and economic resilience. The project exemplifies how small, determined actions can ripple outward, inspiring a movement toward a greener and more equitable future.

ReMade

ReMade is a micro-production laboratory, where an alternative model that integrates processes of digital fabrication, recycling and co-design is experimented with. It aspires to reduce the environmental impact of urban waste management by investigating new relationships between ideation, consumption and production.

Eco Culture

It conducts creative workshops to spread digital culture and ecological thinking particularly in communities that are very socially marginalized. The goal is to spread and experiment with reuse, product design, to develop circular economy models in Naples. Through recycled plastic, the ReMade community gives life to design objects strongly linked to Neapolitan identity and culture,

Plastics for Redesign and Reuse

Another impressive feature is their commitment to community energy efficiency. Solar panels power much of the facility, and water is conserved through rainwater harvesting systems.

GreenBoost4WISEs

These initiatives align with the goals of GreenBoost4WISEs, demonstrating how social enterprises can lead the way in adopting green practices.

The GreenBoost4WISEs (Green Boost for Work Integration Social Enterprises) project is a European initiative designed to foster sustainability and green innovation within social enterprises. It aims to empower Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs), which focus on creating employment opportunities for marginalized groups while advancing environmentally conscious practices.

GreenBoost Participant Group, Nov 2024

GreenBoost4WISEs brings together a network of project partners from across Italy including those in Naples, Austrian and Ireland. These social enterprise partners aim to embrace greater sustainability. The learning offered aims to help transform and promote sustainable development in their workplace and amongst local communities which they serve.

The Remade Lab project is located at Via Capodimonte 13, Naples, around the Basilica of the Crowned Mother of Good Counsel and Queen of the Catholic Church. You can email: info@remadecommunitylab.it for further information.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is a not-for-profit social enterprise providing collection and drop-off services for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Yearly Recycle IT offered drop-off and collection services to thousands of homes and organisations across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, televisions, toasters, cables, lawnmowers, monitors, microwaves and kettles.

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

Visit our website for further details.