Seventy per cent of electronic devices are not being recycled or returned to the circular economy across Galway, new data reveals.
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Ireland (WEEE ) figures show that nationally, over 11 million small electronic items were bought last year, with 4.4 million sold during Black Friday sales and before Christmas.
Galway’s recycling trends show that only 3-in-10 of these items will be recycled when they can no longer be repaired or reused.
The recycling rate is even worse for toys, including games consoles and battery-operated action figures, falling to just 10 per cent nationally. Millions of devices lie in drawers, or are discarded irresponsibly.
With 73 per cent of Irish consumers now shopping online, WEEE Ireland is urging Galway residents to embrace sustainable habits by swapping old for new responsibly.
“Electronics are a top category in online purchases, particularly during high-sales periods like Black Friday and Christmas when cost-conscious consumers hunt for deals,” says Elizabeth O’Reilly, Head of Environmental Compliance at WEEE Ireland.
“However, recycling rates in Galway for small devices remain low, particularly for online purchases, despite the availability of free take-back services for recycling from the likes of Amazon.
“With the holiday shopping season in full swing, it’s more important than ever for consumers to know their options.
“Whether you shop in-store or online, every retailer is required under Irish legislation to accept obsolete devices for free recycling when selling a similar new one.”
“Some online retailers offer collection services with their own delivery services. Others offer options for free postal or courier return.
“This small action can make a big impact, helping conserve finite resources while reducing environmental harm, as well as protecting human and animal health.”
Local authority civic amenity centres, allow consumers to drop-off old electronic devices for free, alongside most physical and online retailers.
WEEE Ireland’s tips for a sustainable Black Friday:
1. Recycle while you buy: Take advantage of free recycling when purchasing new devices;
2. Opt for refurbished: Explore nearly new and refurbished device offerings, and related trade-in offers, when looking for replacement items.
3. Repair first: Extend the life of your gadgets by repairing them before replacing;
4. Reuse and share: Pass on functioning electronics in good quality to others who may need them;
5. Recycle responsibly: Use authorised WEEE collection points for broken devices beyond repair and reuse.
