Together with Minimise building a sustainable e-waste management system in Kenya
E-waste in Kenya requires a responsible approach. That is why Reuzado is working with Minimise to set up a local collection network for end-of-life mobile phones, tablets and laptops. Together, we are helping to ensure safe processing and the recovery of valuable raw materials. An old mobile phone, tablet or laptop contains valuable materials. But without proper collection and processing, those materials can be lost and harmful components can end up in the environment. That is why Reuzado is working with Minimise to set up a collection network in Kenya.
To mark International E-Waste Day on 14 October, Minimise shared an update from Nairobi. Since January, we have been working together to collect discarded mobile phones, tablets and laptops. With support from Enviroserve Kenya, the first steps have been taken. The initiative is now being taken forward with a further expansion of the collection scheme.
Working with local waste collectors
A good collection network starts with the people who work with end-of-life electronics on a daily basis. Many of these collectors operate within the informal sector and are difficult to reach through existing channels.
Together with Latewa International – an NGO – Minimise is working to involve these local collectors in the network. In this way, we are continuing to build a structure that will enable more appliances to be collected and processed responsibly.
The entire device counts as e-waste
This initiative focuses on the collection of complete appliances. Collectors receive a payment for handing in the whole appliance. This encourages them to take the less valuable parts with them as well, rather than simply removing circuit boards and other valuable components and leaving the rest behind.
This way, attention is focused on the device as a whole and on what happens to all its components.
Careful processing, from collection to recycling
After collection, the devices are prepared for further processing. In doing so, attention is paid to both safety and data protection. Batteries are removed and hard drives are destroyed to protect any personal data that may remain on them.
Transport also requires careful preparation. The necessary documentation under the Basel Convention is arranged before the equipment is dispatched for further recycling and the recovery of raw materials.
Our responsibility goes further
At Reuzado, we work every day to extend the lifespan of IT equipment. But even when reuse is no longer possible, responsible disposal remains important.
Through our partnership with Minimise, we are helping to build a collection and processing network in Kenya. This is a concrete step towards recovering valuable raw materials and preventing end-of-life electronics from ending up in the wrong place.
Are you curious about this partnership or what your organisation can do with decommissioned IT equipment? Please contact Contact Off to Reuzado.
