Yes WEEE Can!
It’s no secret that we love our devices! Continuous advancements in technology bring new products and gadgets into our homes, resulting in old electronic goods that need to be disposed of. However, most end-of-life products contain metals and minerals that can be recovered, as well as harmful substances that need to be disposed of carefully.
All across Ireland, we are buying more electrical goods than ever – with people purchasing an average 22kg per head in 2023 compared to 16kgs just five years ago (according to WEEE Ireland CEO Leo Donovan). Shopping stats show a surge in spend on new electrical devices like mobile phones, computers, small kitchen appliances and white goods.
With old items still lying around many households we want to encourage people to recycle these for FREE.
Why should I recycle my electronic waste?
- Electronics contain harmful substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which must be disposed of correctly. By recycling your e-waste, you are reducing the number of harmful substances going to landfills.
- Raw materials recovered from waste appliances can be recycled and reused.
- To conserve natural resources as materials such as plastics, glass and metals are recovered for use again by manufacturers.
So, what is the best way to dispose of electronic waste?
- Give your e-waste to a certified electronics recycler
Recycling centres, not-for-profit organisations, such as WEEE Ireland and local civic amenity sites allow you to recycle your electronic waste for FREE! You will find an interactive map on the WEEE website that will guide you to your nearest local recycling centre, Public Collection Day, Electrical Retailer and Bulb Exchange Store. - Sell your outdated technology
One man’s junk is another’s treasure. You can easily sell your old electronic appliances on an online marketplace such as Facebook Marketplace or Donedeal. Not only are you promoting the circular economy by giving your e-waste a new lease of life, but it is also a good chance to make some money.
- Donate your old electronics
If you do not wish to sell your outdated technology, there is always the option to donate it. Many charities in Ireland accept electronics.
When selling/donating electronic goods, it is important to ask 2 questions:
- Is it working properly?
- Is there any personal information saved on the computer/phone/laptop that should be deleted?
With all of that in mind, we are hosting a FREE electronics recycling event with WEEE Ireland in our recycling centre in Oranmore on Saturday the 5th of October.
People in Galway have contributed greatly to e-waste recycling every year, with 2,748 tonnes of electrical waste collected in the county in 2023, and we want to encourage that trend.
What can I bring?
All household items with a plug or a battery will be accepted free of charge, including old washing machines, TVs, toasters and kettles, electronic tools and toys, cables, IT equipment, mobile phones, remote controls, and even watches.
Is it free?
Yes, to dispose of WEEE, but if you have other materials to dispose of there will be a small charge as normal.
Do I need to be a TCBC customer?
No – this is open to the general public as well as customers, everyone is welcome.
How much can I bring?
As much or as little as you want – there’s no cap on the amount, but bear in mind this is intended for household, not commercial, recycling.
What can’t I bring?
Industrial refrigeration, and anything that the team deems as potentially hazardous.
Where is the WEEE collection event?
The City Bin Co. Recycling Centre, Oranmore, Co. Galway, H91 EVW3
When is the WEEE collection event?
Saturday October 5th from 10am – 4pm
About WEEE Ireland
WEEE Ireland is a not-for-profit organisation, founded by Producers of electrical and electronic appliances to help them comply with the legal obligations imposed by the EU Battery Directive 2006/66/EC and WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU.
WEEE Ireland manages the collection of household e-waste, lighting and solar PV equipment and batteries from authorised collection points for recycling, on behalf of its 1,300 producer members.
WEEE Ireland’s objective is to provide cost-effective quality compliance for producers to meet the requirements of the regulations whilst minimising the cost to the consumer.
