Computer Waste Statistics
Key Takeaways
- There are almost 350 million tonnes of unrecycled e-waste on earth
- WEEE makes up 70% of all toxic waste in the world
- In the UK around 25% of people throw away old computers at the tip rather than recycling them
From computers to mobile phones, electronic devices are a daily essential for most of us globally. While technology plays a central role in our lives, what happens to these devices once we’re done with them often gets overlooked. Electronic waste or e waste continues to pile up, and the numbers are staggering.
In this article, we’ll explore some eye-opening statistics surrounding computers and other WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) waste.
These figures highlight the growing urgency for sustainable solutions to tackle the waste generated globally and encourage better waste recycling practices.
5 Computer & WEEE Waste Statistics
There are almost 350 million tonnes of unrecycled e-waste on earth
Think about that for a second. That’s millions of tonnes of discarded technology that could have been recycled or repurposed. A significant proportion of this waste produced contains valuable metals such as gold, silver, and copper, which can be extracted and reused. Without effective waste collection and recycling systems, these raw materials are lost forever.
WEEE makes up 70% of all toxic waste in the world
Old electronics aren’t just cluttering up landfills—they’re causing serious environmental harm. Toxic materials found in e-waste, like lead, mercury, and cadmium, can leach into the soil and water, posing major health and ecological risks. This highlights the need to improve collection and recycling rates to tackle this growing issue.
In the UK around 25% of people throw away old computers at the tip rather than recycling them
Despite the rise in awareness about environmental issues, many people still dispose of their outdated devices in unsustainable ways. Whether it’s computers, phones, or even vacuum cleaners, too much electronic waste ends up at landfill sites instead of being properly recycled. Boosting awareness about waste collection services could help us reduce e-waste significantly.
Recycling one million laptops could save the equivalent energy to power 3,500 homes for a year
E-waste doesn’t just harm the environment—it also wastes resources. Many electronic devices are highly energy-intensive to manufacture, so extending their life or recycling them can make a big difference.
By improving waste recycling processes, we can conserve energy, reduce pollution, and recover billions’ worth of raw materials that are otherwise discarded.
E-waste generation is forecast to exceed 80 million metric tons by 2030
Electronic waste is the fastest growing waste stream in the world. With the generation of e-waste forecast to exceed 80 million metric tons by 2030, the demand for improved recycling solutions is essential.
By improving waste collection efforts and increasing recycling rates, we can recover the valuable resources extracted for these products.
We Recycle WEEE Waste
At Collect and Recycle, we specialise in recycling electronic waste, including computers and laptops. Our service ensures businesses can reduce their environmental impact and manage their WEEE waste safely.
We provide services nationwide, collecting waste and transporting materials to licensed recycling facilities. Here, your electronic waste can be dealt with safely with minimal impact on the environment.
