Brought to you by E-Waste Recycling Authority (ERA) with Support from Massmart
The number of discarded electronic devices and appliances is growing at an exponential rate both globally and locally. On average, 6.9 kilograms of electronic waste is produced per person annually in Southern Africa, according to the United Nations (i). International E-waste Day on 14th October 2023 aims to highlight the growing issue of electronic waste and promote responsible e-waste management (ii).
In light of this, E-Waste Recycling Authority (ERA) Non-Profit Company (NPC) is inviting the public to be rewarded for recycling their e-waste. For every broken or discarded small, medium and large domestic appliances and ICT items brought into a Makro store on the specified drop-off dates, a voucher will be rewarded in exchange*.
“Technology has been moving at a rapid pace and there is an urgent need to keep up with the rate of waste and ensure its proper management and disposal – for the environment, the economy, and our future. That’s why for our campaign ‘The Future Started. Yesterday.’ we wanted to raise awareness around e-waste recycling,” Ashley du Plooy, former ERA Chairman and now Chief Executive Officer.
It’s difficult to imagine a life without technology: even though prior to the 90s, cellphones were not commonplace. On the other hand, appliances such as washing machines and irons have been around for more than a century – making e-waste an age-old problem.
“Whether it’s your old Nokia cellphone or that broken iron sitting at the back of your cupboard, we want it all! Our goal is to prevent e-waste from ending up in landfill, because it’s made up of valuable materials that can be re-used, as well as some toxic chemicals that need to be managed properly,” says du Plooy.
What are some examples of e-waste that can be recycled?
E-waste covers a large spectrum: from small appliances like electronic toothbrushes and toasters, to medium appliances like microwaves, and large appliances like stoves and printers, as well ICT equipment like computers and hard drives.
Defined as any device with an electrical current or battery, electronic waste is the most complex waste to manage and process; due to potentially toxic components used in their production such as lead and mercury, as well as a mix of materials including wires and plastics.
Electronic waste is a major challenge worldwide and in South Africa it is growing at three times the rate of growth of solid municipal waste(iii)
How can you take part?
To be a part of the solution for E-waste Day, please do take note of [DM1] the following dates for Makro drop-offs:
– 14 October 2023
– 15 October 2023
– 21 October 2023
– 22 October 2023
Commenting on behalf of Makro, Viratha Hariram, Environmental Sustainability Manager says, “We are delighted to be working with ERA, to help increase e-waste recycling in our county. E-waste represents a significant environmental issue and through this campaign customers can responsibly dispose of their unwanted electronics and be rewarded while doing it.”
Be a part of the solution for International E-waste Day this month. Learn more about the campaign here: https://eranpc.co.za/thefuturestartedyesterday/
Or email us on itsnotbroken@eranpc.co.za
*Cap set at R600 per drop off. T&C’s apply.
Visit the ERA website for a full list of e-waste items: https://eranpc.co.za/for-the-public/what-can-be-recycled/
