How to recycle household e-waste & old electronics responsibly
Here is a handy guide on where you can take your old computers and electronic devices, when recycling as an individual.
E-waste is a growing problem in the UK
The UK ranks among the highest e-waste producers per-capita worldwide when it comes to household e-waste. Fortunately, new businesses are emerging to help individuals find the best refurbishment and recycling options for their old electronics. We help businesses, charities and organisations to deal with their e-waste in a secure and ethical way.
Where can I recycle household e-waste?
Local councils accept e-waste at recycling centres, where devices are often thrown into skips and shredded. This is the least environmentally friendly method of recycling and is not accessible to everyone.
Several UK companies offer phone and laptop refurbishment services for a fee. While refurbishing and reusing old electronics is the most environmentally friendly recycling method, these services can be costly- though still significantly cheaper than purchasing a new device.
Additionally, some companies buy old phones and laptops to refurbish and resell. While it is an excellent recycling option, there is no guarantee that the new owner will dispose of the device responsibly when it reaches the end of its life.
Take a look at recycle your electricals, to learn how to make the most responsible choice for your e-waste. Your local household recycling centre will take e-waste. Find your local council website then click through to their info on household recycling.
Ready to recycle your e-waste?
Driven by a mission to raise the standards of IT recycling, we are committed to solutions that limit waste in the UK and avoid exporting waste, contributing to pollution in other countries. At Zero Tech Waste, we’re not just recycling IT—we’re redefining the future of responsible and sustainable recycling.
IT waste recycling for UK businesses
Whether you are a large organisation or a smaller, independent firm, we offer flexible options to suit your needs. These include our secure Zero Bins for on-site collection or convenient bulk pickups at absolutely no cost to you*, and which is 100% carbon negative.
Our service includes secure data wiping, and all certificates & documentation.
E-waste recycling for households & individuals
Personal enquiries are also welcome with Zero Tech Waste. We accept the same equipment from individuals as we do from businesses.
If there are fewer than 10 qualifying items, then our Zero Post service is a good choice. We offer free collections when there are more than 10 items – just complete the form and we’ll be in touch to confirm the best option for you.
Why UK businesses choose Zero Tech Waste
Secure, carbon-negative IT recycling with free qualifying collections, data destruction and certificates always provided.
Free qualifying collections
Free collection for 10+ qualifying laptops, PCs or servers.
Certificates provided
You receive the documentation you need for your records.
Secure data destruction
Data-bearing devices are securely erased, degaussed or destroyed where required.
Carbon-negative recycling
Reuse-first processing, UK-based handling and twice the CO₂ offset.