Reports indicate that e-waste reached 62 million tonnes worldwide in 2022, marking an alarming 82% increase from 2010 volumes.  

The United Nations defines e-waste as any discarded product containing a battery or plug, often including hazardous substances like mercury, which can severely impact human and environmental health if not properly managed.  

In South Africa (SA), efforts are underway to curb the problem through organised recycling initiatives. Speaking to Channel Africa, Aysha Lotter, Spokesperson for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment South Africa, highlighted the importance of responsible disposal practices and refurbishment programs.  

"In SA, we have some leading recyclers, and basically what we do is try to gather as much e-waste as possible through collection drives," Lotter explained.

"The first hope is always to assess whether an electronic component can be re-used. If an item can be refurbished, it is fixed and sold on, extending its life cycle."  

--ChannelAfrica--