New app designed to boost Egypt’s low e-cycling rate

Egypt – Claiming that Egypt generated almost 370 000 tonnes of e-scrap in 2014, entrepreneur Essam Hashem has launched the mobile app Mr WEEE in a bid to boost the collection of end-of-life electronics. The online tool gives consumers and companies advice and allows them to arrange pickups.

People who join the scheme will receive vouchers which can be used to purchase items from associated companies, Hashem explains. The app can be downloaded from Google Play for free. The businessman previously set up the company Spear Ink to promote the recycling of printer cartridges.

Whether discussing e-scrap in general or specific items such as cartridges, Hashem stresses that ‘safe and professional’ recycling cannot become a reality without first driving public awareness. In this context, Egypt – a nation that recycles only some 20% of its e-scrap – has a long way to go.

Hashem advocates installing a series of modern shredders to deal with the growing volume of e-scrap. He hopes that new companies like his will pave the way for pioneers to emerge and shape Egypt’s e-cycling industry.