As International E-Waste Day emphasizes, a significant portion of electronic waste is still not being disposed of properly. Today, there is a wide range of options available for discarding electronic devices, batteries, and electronic toys or clothing items like light-up sneakers.

Stores Obligations and Recycling Laws

Under the Elektrogesetz (Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act), stores with a retail space of at least 400 square meters that offer electronic goods are required to accept old devices up to 25 centimeters in size free of charge, whether or not you purchased them there. Similarly, the Battery Act mandates manufacturers to implement a take-back system for used batteries, which consumers can return at locations like supermarkets.

Household Waste Collection Centers

For items like broken power strips, outdated electronic toys, or old kitchen appliances, public waste disposal services such as recycling centers offer proper disposal options. Often, there is a dedicated spot for small electronic items. Batteries, light bulbs, and lithium-ion batteries should be removed and disposed of separately, as damages can cause fires in recycling facilities.

Large Appliances Collection

Large appliances like fridges or washing machines can be taken to municipal recycling centers or disposal sites. Retailers also have a responsibility to arrange the collection of old appliances when a new replacement is purchased. Online retailers must offer viable return options for the convenient disposal of such items.

Recycling Photovoltaic Modules

Photovoltaic panels, while the smallest percentage of e-waste, pose a distinct challenge due to the valuable materials they contain. By 2030, Germany is expected to generate over 500,000 tons of obsolete panels. The Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act includes these modules, making them subject to similar recycling standards as other electronic devices. Residential households can dispose of up to 20 modules for free at local collection points, while commercial quantities necessitate coordination with manufacturers.

For further details on solar module recycling initiatives, visit the heise+ article.

This article first appeared in heise.de.