E-dumping still a hard habit to break

One in eight people in Ireland continues to dump small electrical items in household bins, new research shows. This figure almost doubles among younger age groups.

A recent survey shows that one in four 18-24-year-olds and one in five aged 35-44 get rid of common household electrical items such as smart watches, earbuds and blue tooth speakers in general waste bins. Other commonly dumped products include laptops, mobile phones, gaming devices, power tools and e-cigarettes.

Meanwhile, Ireland witnessed a 100% increase in lithium battery-powered small electronics coming back for recycling in the past five years.

‘For those that recycle their e-waste, our survey shows 75%  do so due to its positive impact on the environment, with over 50% citing concerns over the hazardous components present in some of these devices,’ says Leo Donovan, ceo of WEEE Ireland. ‘Despite this awareness, a significant number still opt to dispose of their electronics improperly, particularly when it involves smaller devices.’

Donovan observes that the low recycling rates for small electrics are echoed in global statistics. He cites recent Global E-Waste Monitor statistics revealing that less than one quarter (22.3%) of e-waste was properly recycled in 2022, falling sharply to just 12% for small devices. 

In addition, a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study in Ireland revealed that over two-thirds of recyclable waste, including valuable electronic components, are wrongly discarded in general household and commercial bins.  

‘The demand for critical raw materials contained in electrical devices is expected to skyrocket,’ Donovan adds. ‘The EU’s aim to ensure that by 2030, at least 30% of critical raw materials consumed annually originate from European recycled sources underscores the imperative for swift and decisive action.’

He goes on to state: ‘Failure to address these pressing challenges not only risks our environmental and public health but also undermines our collective aspirations for a greener, more sustainable future.’