October 14th is International E-Waste Day

COVID-19 added to the rise of e-waste being generated across the globe. International E-Waste Day, held on October 14th, aims to raise awareness of the growing crisis and its global impact.

The digital transformation of people's lives spurred on by the COVID-19 pandemic led to a dramatic increase in the purchase of electronic devices. Companies bought new technology to facilitate employees working from home. Consumers turned to digital devices to cope with pandemic isolation.

Michael Dudley, Senior Policy Manager for TCNZ, said: "Electronic devices have made living and coping with COVID-19 lockdown restrictions more bearable. The increase in the purchase of these devices, however, will inevitably lead to an increase in the need for their disposal."

"Everyone has a role to play in moving towards a circular economy. Once your electronic device reaches its end-of-life and all opportunities for reuse have been exhausted, recycling is the next best step. Reusing these valuable resources in the manufacture of new products closes the loop and reduces the need for further extraction of earth's precious resources." — Michael Dudley

The theme for International E-Waste Day 2021 was "Consumer is the key to Circular Economy!" Founded by the WEEE Forum, International E-Waste Day aims to raise the public profile of responsible e-waste recycling globally. Visit weee-forum.org

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