A guide to responsible e-waste disposal in Gauteng
From old phones to broken laptops, e-waste is a growing problem, learn how to safely and responsibly recycle your electronics in Gauteng, protecting both the environment and your data.
Electronics have become an indispensable part of modern life, but their disposal presents a significant challenge. Electronic waste, or e-waste, contains hazardous materials that can harm the environment and human health if improperly discarded.
eWASA (e-Waste Association of South Africa) has listed on its website all collection sites in Gauteng where electronic consumers can take their recyclable electronic appliances.
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“You can recycle items like computers, laptops, cellphones, printers, cables, monitors, and batteries. Responsible e-waste recycling helps to reduce the harmful effects of e-waste on the environment and human health,” said eWASA.
You can recycle e-waste in Johannesburg at certified collection points, drop-off locations, and recycling facilities.
Certified collection points
- Woolworths: Some locations in Gauteng, including Sandton, Rosebank, and East Rand Mall.
- Makro: Crown Mines, Silver Lakes, Woodmead, and Centurion.
- Computer Scrap Recycling: In Brakpan, accredited by eWASA.
Drop-off locations
- AST Recycling: Has bins at Leroy Merlin stores in Fourways, Boksburg, Greenstone, and Little Falls.
- South Group Recycling: Has facilities in Johannesburg, as well as Cape Town, Pretoria, and Durban.
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Recycling facilities
- Desco Electronic Recyclers: Accepts e-waste for recycling and offers collection services
Other options
- Pikitup: In partnership with e-WASA and waste reclaimers, has an e-waste recycling programme at the Marie Louise landfill site in Soweto
The dangers of improper e-waste disposal:
Electronic waste contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into the soil and contaminate water sources if improperly discarded in landfills.
This poses a significant threat to human health and the environment. Recycling e-waste allows the recovery of valuable materials such as gold, silver, and copper, reducing the need to mine for these resources and minimising the environmental impact.
Tips for responsible e-waste disposal:
- Erase your data: Before disposing of any electronic device, ensure you back up and securely erase all personal data. This protects your privacy and prevents unauthorised access to sensitive information.
- Remove batteries: Remove any batteries from your devices before recycling them. These batteries often have their recycling requirements.
- Separate cables and accessories: Separate all cables, chargers, and accessories from your devices. These can often be recycled separately.
- Check for special instructions: Some facilities may have specific instructions for certain types of e-waste, such as LCD screens or large appliances. Always follow these instructions.
By responsibly disposing of your e-waste, you are contributing to:
- Environmental protection: Preventing pollution and conserving natural resources.
- Resource recovery: Recycling valuable materials and reducing the need for mining.
- Job creation: Supporting the e-waste recycling industry, which creates jobs in collection, processing, and refurbishment.
- A sustainable future: Protecting the environment for future generations.
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