Recycling plateaus as Canadians hoard old tech

The share of Canadians with unwanted electronics in their homes is steady or falling slightly, according to the latest national survey.

Statistics Canada surveys about 65 000 households across the country’s 10 provinces every two years. The 2023 survey shows small appliances are the most common item awaiting disposal, reported by 16% of households.

Most common unwanted electronics

• Computers: 14% (-1% point since 2021)
• Televisions: 14% (unchanged)
• Cell phones: 14% (unchanged)
• Printers: 10% (-1%)
• Audiovisual equipment: 9% (-1%)
• Microwave ovens: 6% (unchanged)
• Landline telephones: 5% (-1%)
• Set-top boxes: 5% (new)
• Wearable electronics: 4% (new)
• Electronic gaming equipment: 3% (unchanged)

Although hoarded mobile phones remained stable at 14%, returns to suppliers or retailers rose by four points, while use of drop-off depots fell seven points to 33%.

Most Canadians rely on depots or drop-off centres for e-scrap disposal: 64% donated computers, printers or TVs to such facilities. This is down from 66% in 2021 but up from 58% in 2017.

Short-term contracts

The analysis notes many Canadians keep their older phones for cheaper month-to-month plans.

Gamers hold onto equipment longer and only 3% of households reported having unwanted gaming gear. Of those disposing of this type of e-scrap:

• 52% used a depot or drop-off centre (-4%)
• 21% donated or gave it away (-3%)