January is the perfect time to clear out old gadgets and appliances. If you’ve upgraded over Christmas, don’t throw the old ones in the bin. Recycle them responsibly through Durham County Council’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) scheme. Post-Christmas is a peak time for electrical waste. Make recycling part of your January clear-out. It’s free, quick and better for the environment.
Why Recycle?
Electrical waste is more than clutter. It contains valuable metals like copper, aluminium and rare earth elements, alongside hazardous substances such as lead and mercury. When dumped in landfill, these toxins can leach into soil and water, polluting ecosystems and posing risks to human health. At the same time, throwing away recoverable materials wastes resources that could be reused in new products.
The scale of the problem is significant. The UK produces over 1.5 million tonnes of electrical waste every year, making it one of the fastest-growing waste streams. Improper disposal contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and increases demand for mining, which has its own environmental impact.
Recycling changes this. By processing old electricals, we recover metals and components for reuse, cut down on landfill, and reduce the need for raw material extraction. Every item recycled helps conserve resources and lowers pollution, making it a simple but effective way to protect the environment.
Where to Take Your Items – Small Electrical Collection Points
There are over 180 pink-bin collection points across County Durham for items such as:
- Mobile phones
- Hairdryers
- Toasters
- Vapes etc.
The collection points are typically located within local libraries, leisure centres, community centres and other public buildings, making it easy to drop off items while you’re out. Find your nearest point using Durham County Councils interactive map.
Household Waste Recycling Centres
Larger electrical items can be taken to any council recycling centre. Check locations and opening times on the recycling centres website.
Before You Recycle
Before dropping off your electrical items, take a few simple steps to make recycling safer and more effective. Remove any batteries and recycle them separately at collection point, as they require different handling. If the item still works or can be repaired, consider giving it a second life through local repair services or community “Repair Cafes”. Working appliances can also be donated to charities or reuse schemes, helping others while reducing waste. These actions cut down on unnecessary disposal and support a more sustainable approach.
