A total of 93 million household electronic items were purchased in 2024 – almost three times the volume sold in 2006, according to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland as it launched its 2024 annual report recently.
The country’s biggest e-waste recycling scheme is now calling for a national leap forward in “e-waste intelligence” as consumption reaches record levels, putting pressure on Ireland’s ability to meet EU recycling targets.
“Each one of those 93 million devices contains valuable materials like aluminium, copper, lithium or cobalt,” said Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland.
“We’re using these materials far faster than they can regenerate. Global demand is set to triple by 2050 – a trajectory that cannot be sustained.”
“With over 80% of the EU’s rare earths coming from China, Ireland’s dependence on imports leaves us dangerously exposed. We must reduce that risk by rethinking consumption, embracing
circularity, and recovering more materials here at home.”
With a 96% recovery rate, WEEE Ireland continues to exceed EU material recovery targets and reinforce Ireland’s standing as a circular economy leader.
Consumers can recycle their electronics for free at participating retailers or recycling centres. Check www.weeeireland.ie for these as well as its many free public recycling collection days across the country.
