On the International Day for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), observed on October 14th, the focus is on fast-consumption technology ('fast tech'). The ZERO organization points to "20 years of boycotts and illegalities" in the WEEE management system, while DECO PROteste highlights the need for specific care for these waste items.
A European study reveals that in Portugal, 17.8% of buyers of small electrical equipment have disposed of them in common waste or inappropriate locations. Chargers, cables, and earphones are examples of items often purchased at low cost that, according to the study, frequently end up in improper destinations.
Although 41.9% of respondents indicated they handed over these devices to collection centers, a significant portion still uses street bins or yellow recycling points. Improper management of WEEE, even small items, prevents material recovery and the treatment of hazardous components, posing a risk to the environment and human health. Devices with lithium-ion batteries disposed of incorrectly can also present a fire hazard.
