In Singapore, there is a general lack of awareness about the availability of proper recycling platforms. However, a simple search would show that there are currently many initiatives that allow for proper recycling and management of our E-Waste. These initiatives also handles different types of E-waste, as they require different management methods.
For example, fluorescent tubes and lamps contain mercury. It is hazardous and needs to be carefully extracted before the other materials can be recycled.
Here are some current initiatives that support E-Waste recycling:
1. StarHub’s REcycling Nation’s Electronic Waste (RENEW)
This is Singapore’s most extensive and inclusive E-waste recycling programme. There are 325 RENEW bins at 274 locations all around Singapore. They are most commonly found in community centres, shopping malls, public educational institutions and more. The strength of this programme is that the bins are very easily accessible to all age groups. Students ranging anywhere from 7 to 18 years old are able to see the presence of the bins in their schools. Malls and community clubs are also have a certain amount of traffic, which aids in awareness of these bins. However, one limitation is that RENEW bins only accepts E-waste that are able to fit the bin’s 470mm x 120mm opening slot.
(Starhub, 2015)
2. Dell and HP’s E-Waste Collection
This is only for Dell or Hewlett-Packard (HP) products, where Singaporeans can arrange to have representatives from the company for home collection. This programme is very convenient as people only need to fill up an online form, pack their E-Waste into boxes, and then wait for collection in the comfort of their own homes.
The E-Waste collection program is also extended to business. However, it is only based on a voluntary basis.
3. Project Homecoming – Ink and toner cartridge recycling bins
(National University of Singapore, n.a.)
Project Homecoming is an initiative by Canon and Epson, both private electronics manufacturer companies. There is also increased credibility as it is supported by the National Environment Agency (NEA). They accept all ink and toner cartridges, regardless of brands. These bins are available in more than 34 islandwide locations, noticeably in most public libraries and NUS.
4. Manufacturing Companies’ Programs
Companies such as Nokia, Ikea, Fuji Xerox, and Nokia have their own initiatives to collect E-waste for recycling, and these initiatives. IKEA has dedicated recycling bins for E-Waste such as regular light bulbs, low energy light bulbs, and batteries. Nokia has collected and recycled more than 5400kg of E-waste from in 2012. These are voluntary sustainability efforts done by environmentally conscious companies (Yap, 2013).
5. Private E-Waste Collection Companies
Singapore based Small-Medium Startup such as Virogreen offers collection based services for E-Waste, even bulky ones like washing machines and television sets. It is convenient for consumers or businesses looking to dispose of their E-Waste in an environmentally friendly manner. Additionally, there is some monetary incentives given for the electronics collected.