The residents of Bushbuckridge and Nkomazi went all out to attend the launch of the Electronic and Electric Waste (e-waste) Recycling Project by the deputy minister for forestry, fisheries and the environment, Bernice Swarts.

The launch formed part of the ministerial service delivery imbizos hosted by Swarts at the Mkhuhlu Stadium on January 31, and in Schoemansdal on February 1.

The residents brought along old and unused electronics and appliances, such as cellphones, computers, radios, stoves, fridges and washing machines for recycling.

“This launch marks a significant milestone in our journey towards creating a cleaner, greener and more sustainable environment. e-Waste is now considered the fastest-growing waste stream worldwide. The proliferation of technology and the consumer-driven nature of our society have led to millions of tonnes of electronic devices being discarded each year. These old devices and household appliances contain harmful materials such as lead, mercury and cadmium, which can have devastating effects on our environment and public health if not properly managed. In South Africa, we generate over 360 000 tonnes of e-waste annually, and unfortunately, only 10% of this is properly recycled. The rest ends up in landfills, or worse, is illegally dumped, posing serious risks to our ecosystems,” Swarts said.

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She said the success of this project relies heavily on the participation of the local community. “By providing easy access to recycling facilities and offering guidance on how to properly separate and dispose of their old electronic devices, we aim to change the way residents think about their waste.”

Swarts said wheelie bins, which the Producer Responsibility Organisation provided to the Bushbuckridge and Nkomazi local municipalities, will be placed at designated sites which will be determined by the respective municipalities and communicated widely to the community.

“These bins will serve as dedicated receptacles for collecting e-waste, ensuring that it is separated from general household waste and directed to specialised recycling channels. e-Waste collection enterprises that are based in the any of the municipalities will be charged with the responsibility of servicing these designated sites.”

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The electronic waste that was collected on both days will be recycled by the Extended Producer Responsibility Waste Association of South Africa and the e-Waste Recycling Authority. The previous owners of the appliances received vouchers based on weight and market rates for each type of e-waste they brought.