Currys Collects: UK tech retailer Currys tackles e-waste problem as it pilots collection service
Currys has announced a new tech recycling service - Currys Collects.
This brings its Cash for Trash initiative, which has seen over 46,500 tonnes recycled in the last year, to people’s doors, taking away unwanted or broken technology.
A pilot in Bradford sees a Currys Collects electric van driving around the city collecting items from people.
The van will also park up at the local community centre, Community Works, for drop-in sessions where experts will answer any questions people may have, whilst collecting tech in exchange for £5 Cash for Trash vouchers.
Items that Currys will be picking up include anything that houses wiring or batteries, included but not limited to; batteries, chargers, cables, beauty appliances such as straighteners and hair dryers, and kitchen appliances like kettles and toasters.
Mandeep Gobindpuri, Head of Circular Economy at Currys, says: "We know that people want to recycle – our survey found that 84% of the nation said they would recycle their old tech – but more than half either don’t know how to or lack the means to do so.”
“Our new service aims to address both issues by collecting and educating the public. And what better time than spring to look into your cupboards for all those idle cables, outdated phones, broken remotes and used batteries.”
“Virtually anything that houses a plug or battery holds value through its materials, no matter how damaged it is. We’re hoping to make it as easy as possible to recycle your unwanted or broken tech – and in a small way, help us live more sustainably.”
“We are making great progress on educating the nation about tech recycling and going into 2023, Currys Collects takes that one step further by bringing it right to people’s doors. We hope the pilot is a success and that we can eventually take nationwide.’
Jane Lees, CEO at Community Works, Bradford, comments: “It was fantastic to see the community so keen to participate in the home collections recycling service.”
"We’ve also seen a fantastic turnout of community members coming to the centre to recycle their old and unused tech to receive a voucher.”
“Times have been particularly hard for the community here in Bradford and it’s excellent to see our residents making cash out of old and unused items that can count towards needed appliances. Every little bit counts and helps tremendously.”
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