Irish households are being urged to address the growing electronic waste problem. A UN study revealed that Irish consumers generated 11 million kilograms of e-waste last year, equivalent to 25 million items laden with precious metals.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Ireland (WEEE Ireland) warns that 60% of these items never enter the recycling system, ending up in landfills and homes. WEEE Ireland stresses that valuable metals in these items may be lost forever without intervention.

Elizabeth O'Reilly, Head of Environmental Compliance and Membership at WEEE Ireland, calls on the public to extend their recycling efforts to these smaller electronic items, emphasizing that items with a plug, battery, or cable can be recycled at local sites.

Why does it matter?

The UN report emphasizes that this is not just an Irish issue but a global one. The 9 billion kilograms of small e-waste generated worldwide points to a systemic concern. It's a challenge that extends beyond national borders and necessitates international cooperation and solutions.