Quarterly household e-waste collected in the United Kingdom 2015-2024

In the first quarter of 2024, approximately 121,770 metric tons of household waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) were collected in the United Kingdom. On average, more than 125,000 metric tons of household electronic waste is collected each quarter. The UK is one of the biggest producers of e-waste in the world.

Types of e-waste

WEEE, often referred to as e-waste, consists of electronic products that are discarded at the end of their useful life. Types of e-waste include phones, computers, and light bulbs, as well as large household appliances such as fridges, microwaves, and washing machines, which make up the largest volume of collected e-waste in the United Kingdom.

E-Waste a growing problem

E-waste is one of the fastest growing waste streams in the world, and there are health concerns over the way it is disposed of. Large amounts are exported to developing countries. With a lack of proper waste management, electronics are often burnt, resulting in the likely contamination of soil, water, and food.