The international waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) forum estimated that 5.3 billion would be thrown away in 2022.

A new study from Uswitch has revealed that the UK is the second-highest contributor to e-waste in the world, behind only Norway, generating 36,681 tonnes of household waste electrical and electronic equipment in 2021 – a 15% increase compared to 2020.

Since records began in 2008, there has been a steady increase in the amount of e-waste generated each year – the only excetion being during the pandemic. However, any slowdown caused by coronavirus appears to have worn off, with Uswitch claiming that there are signs that e-waste is on the rise again.

In total, IT and telecoms e-waste has increased by just under double (98%) between 2008 to 2022. If it were to follow this trend in future, we could be generating just under 55,000 tonnes by 2030.

This means that the number of toxic materials being released into the atmosphere via e-waste would be at an all-time high. Not only this, but it also means that we would be throwing away vast amounts of precious metals such as gold, silver, copper, platinum and aluminium.

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To try and help combat mobile emissions, Uswitch has also revealed their top tips for cutting down your e-waste contributions:

1. Consider opting for a SIM only deal – Rather than buying a new phone when your contract is up, consider opting for a SIM only deal instead and stick to your current model. Not only are SIM only deals often more affordable, but they likewise help to extend a handset’s lifespan.
2. Look after your phone – Endeavour to make your phone last as long as possible by looking after it and keeping it in good condition. This could mean making sure not to overcharge the battery, keeping it clean and free of dust, or keeping it in a protective case.
3. Recycle – If you need to dispose of a mobile phone, consider donating or recycling it instead of throwing it away. This could mean giving the phone to a friend or family member, donating to a charity shop, or selling to a recycling service.
4. Carefully dispose of handsets – When you are disposing of electrical or electronic equipment and batteries, make sure that you do so responsibly and at the correct facilities. Take the time to review the user guide for your device to check how to properly dispose of it.

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