As with every nation, Australians love electronics and this culture pushes us to buy new items even if our old items haven’t given out quite yet. Electronic waste is growing 3 times as fast as any other waste stream in Australia and unless we change how we approach e-waste it’s not going to slow down.
When it comes to TV’s and mobile phones, our recycling rates aren’t too bad but we are neglecting to recycle other items like batteries and these can be devastating to the environment.
Before you rush out and replace a dated electronic product, just because there is a sale, take a moment to first consider whether you really need it or not. If you really no longer want or need the item, check with friends and family to see if they could use it or speak to the manufacturer about refurbished items. Local charity groups also often accept older electronic products.
It is a no-brainer since almost 99% of computer and mobile phone components can be recovered and recycled. E-waste contains high quantities of non-renewable resources such as plastic and precious metals. Recycling these prevents new electronics being made from virgin non-renewable sources while prevents products from entering landfills where toxic materials can leak into groundwater, contaminate the soil, and even enter the food chain.