UK Plans to Boost Recycling of Electrical Goods

The UK government is proposing to introduce kerbside collections for small electrical items, such as toasters and hairdryers, from 2026 as part of its efforts to boost recycling. This initiative aims to reduce the amount of waste generated by households and ensure that more electronic devices are recycled or reused.

In addition to kerbside collections, the government is also considering drop-off points in retailers where households can recycle unwanted items for free. Shops and online sellers would be required to pick up unwanted or broken larger electrical items, such as fridges, when delivering replacements.

A 10-week consultation period is currently underway to gather public feedback on these proposals. The government has emphasized that home collections would not require any additional bins and that the cost of the pick-ups would be financed by the producers of electrical items, rather than falling on taxpayers.

According to the government’s estimates, nearly half a billion small tech items are thrown away each year, along with 155,000 tonnes of smaller household electricals, such as cables, toasters, kettles, and power tools. The government’s recycling minister, Robbie Moore, stated that these plans would help prevent unnecessary waste and conserve natural resources.

The government will also consult on ensuring that vape suppliers fund the collection of single-use vape products to avoid them ending up in landfills. However, it is not guaranteed that these products will be entirely recycled.

The Environmental Services Association’s executive director, Jacob Hayler, welcomed the plans, stating that they could make it “simpler and more convenient” for households to recycle waste electronics at home. He added that the consultation would provide an opportunity for recycling center operators and kerbside collection services to contribute their expertise and help create an effective system that benefits all stakeholders.

These proposals are part of a joint consultation involving the UK government, the Scottish government, the Welsh government, and the Northern Ireland Executive. The aim is to develop a comprehensive strategy to improve recycling rates and reduce waste across the country.