Electronic waste (e-waste) is a fast-growing problem in New Zealand. Every year about 80,000 tonnes of e-waste is disposed of in New Zealand. Many of these products contain toxic substances such as lead and mercury.
There are over a million unused electronic items in New Zealand homes
There are about 3.3 million mobile phones in New Zealand and 25% (825,000) are no longer being used. Nearly 250,000 unused computers are stored in homes.
What can you do?
- Try to re-use any unwanted equipment that is in good working order, either by donating to charities or community groups, or selling online or in second-hand stores.
- You can send other products off for recycling. There are a number of schemes in place for recycling e-waste, contact your local council for information about schemes in your area.
- Take your old e-waste to the National eDay for safe recycling.
For more information on specific recycling schemes visit the links below.
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