Electronic waste poses significant environmental hazards when disposed of improperly, often ending up in landfills and contributing to pollution. Communities require accessible and cost-effective avenues to dispose of e-waste safely.

With a grant from the Ōrākei Local Board, Echo organized a free community e-waste drop-off event at Ellerslie School, successfully collecting over 8,800 kg of electronic waste from 380 vehicles. This initiative encouraged broader community participation by eliminating typical recycling fees for items like fridges and printers, making e-waste recycling more accessible.

This effort was a collaborative one:

• Echo worked with a dedicated community member to apply for the local board grant that funded the initiative.

• Ellerslie School provided the venue, facilitating a central and familiar location for the event.

• The local resident's association played a crucial role in outreach, distributing marketing flyers and spreading the word about the e-waste day.

Impact

The event's success is evident in the substantial amount of e-waste collected, reflecting the community's eagerness to engage in responsible disposal when barriers are removed. Such initiatives not only protect the environment but also enhance public safety by preventing hazardous materials from entering general waste streams.

Organizations and councils interested in hosting similar events or establishing e-waste recycling programs are encouraged to connect with Echo to explore collaborative opportunities.

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