Invisible e-waste refers to electronic waste where consumers commonly overlook its recyclable potential. As our society becomes increasingly technology-oriented, more and more products present on the market have some kind of electrical or electronic component that can be recycled rather than sent to landfill. Some examples of these types of objects, largely present in households are: electric and electronic toys, e-cigarettes, power tools, smoke detectors, wearables, smart home gadgets, e-bikes and e-scooters or simply cables.

Invisible e-waste can potentially contain toxic substances and, as such, it cannot be landfilled in terms of South African legislation. Furthermore, during informal salvage (as is common in South Africa), toxic residues can leak and contaminate the soil, air and water, affecting surrounding ecosystems where the local communities grow their food and fish. If not salvaged, valuable raw materials are lost, creating additional demand for mining and other potentially harmful activities. 

To prevent potential environmental damage, this year, the City again encourages all residents to take any old, broken or obsolete devices with a plug, battery or cable, to one of our drop-off facilities to be safely processed. 

The Institute of Waste Management South Africa is also holding an e-waste collection day on 4 November at JG Afrika (pty) Ltd premises in Pinelands. See details at this link.

‘With the disposal services offered by our network of drop-off sites and our waste recyclers map, and the growing private disposal/beneficiation economy, it is more convenient than ever for residents to safely dispose of e-waste. With residents on board, our City can become a clear leader in e-waste recycling on the continent,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.