Pick n Pay is making strides in addressing the global e-waste issue by reintroducing e-waste recycling bins at its stores.
In collaboration with EWaste Africa and the E-waste Recycling Authority, this initiative aims to enable customers to dispose of electronic devices and appliances responsibly, encourage sustainable practices, and create job opportunities.
Currently, 29 bins are placed near the entrances or inside Pick n Pay stores, mainly in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Plans are in motion to extend this initiative to stores in the Free State, Northern Region, and Western Cape over the coming months.
The Global E-waste Monitor reported that by 2022, the world had generated 62 billion kilograms of e-waste, averaging 7,8 kilograms per person. However, only 22,3% of this waste was properly collected and recycled.
Although Pick n Pay first introduced e-waste bins over 15 years ago, these were primarily used for light bulbs and batteries. Steffen Burrows, Pick n Pay’s sustainability manager, explains, “Our existing e-waste bins have been updated to accommodate the growing range of e-waste as technology evolves. The newly designed bins can now handle items from cables and mobile phones to larger appliances like washing machines.”
With e-waste increasing at a rate three times faster than municipal waste in South Africa, proper recycling is essential to prevent environmental and health risks identified by the World Health Organisation. E-waste often contains hazardous materials such as lead and lithium, which can be dangerous if not managed correctly. Additionally, low recycling rates mean that valuable metals and minerals remain untapped, while landfills approach capacity.
Recycling items like laptops and batteries helps conserve resources and reduce environmental impact. The expanded network of Pick n Pay’s e-waste bins aims to enhance recycling infrastructure across the country.
To find your nearest e-waste recycling facility or drop-off point, visit the African Marine Network map.
