The figures show that over 11 million small electronic items, ranging from personal grooming devices to tech gadgets, were bought in Ireland last year. Of these, 4.4 million were purchased during Black Friday and Christmas. Yet, only 30% of these devices are recycled when they can no longer be repaired or reused, leaving many out of the circular economy.

WEEE Ireland’s Tips for Christmas Recycling:

· Recycle while you buy: Take advantage of free recycling services when purchasing new devices.

· Opt for refurbished: Consider nearly new or refurbished devices and explore trade-in offers when replacing items.

· Repair first: Extend the lifespan of your gadgets by repairing them before considering replacements.

· Reuse and share: Donate functioning electronics in good condition to those who need them.

· Recycle responsibly: Use authorised WEEE Ireland collection points for items that are beyond repair or reuse.

· Recycling rates for toys, including gaming consoles and battery-operated action figures, are even lower, with just 10% being recycled. This leaves millions of devices forgotten in drawers or discarded irresponsibly.

With 73% of Irish consumers now shopping online, WEEE Ireland is urging people to adopt sustainable shopping habits, such as trading in old devices when purchasing new ones.

“Electronics are among the most popular online purchases, especially during high-sales periods like Black Friday and Christmas, when consumers are looking for deals,” said Elizabeth O’Reilly, Head of Environmental Compliance at WEEE Ireland.

“Despite free take-back recycling services from retailers, including online giants like Amazon, the national recycling rates for small devices remain alarmingly low. With the holiday shopping season in full swing, it’s critical for consumers to know their recycling options.”

Irish law requires all retailers—both in-store and online—to accept old devices for free recycling when selling a similar new product.

“Retailers offer various ways to return old electronics for recycling,” Ms. O’Reilly explained. “Some online retailers provide collection services, while others offer free postal or courier returns. If you recycle your old device when purchasing a new one, you ensure it won’t end up in landfill.”

“This simple action has a big impact—helping conserve limited resources, reducing environmental harm, and protecting human and animal health,” she added.

WEEE Ireland also operates hundreds of collection points at local authority civic amenity centres, allowing consumers to drop off their unwanted electronic devices free of charge.