South Africa Urged to Increase E-Waste Recycling

Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts called for improved recycling of electronic equipment during International E-Waste Day.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Environmental

Isometric editorial illustration showing a structured arrangement of discarded electronic components like circuit boards, wiring, and metal casings. — South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has intensified efforts to improve nationwide electronic waste collection and recycling infrastructure. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you make a point to recycle your old electronic items instead of discarding them?

South Africa marked International E-Waste Day by highlighting the countrys struggle with electronic waste management. Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts has called for increased public participation in recycling programmes to better address the annual output of discarded technology.

Why it matters

Properly managing electronic waste is essential to prevent hazardous materials like lead and mercury from entering the environment. The initiative also aims to foster sustainable economic growth by creating opportunities for local enterprises and marginalized groups.

South Africa produces over 360,000 tonnes of e-waste annually, yet only an estimated 10% is processed through formal recycling channels. This waste stream remains a significant environmental concern due to the presence of heavy metals.

The players

Bernice Swarts

Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister who has advocated for increased public involvement in national electronic waste recycling efforts.

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

This government body is responsible for implementing Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations to manage environmental policy in South Africa.

The details

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has introduced Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations to facilitate nationwide collection and recycling efforts. These programmes rely on collaboration between Producer Responsibility Organisations, local municipalities, and small businesses to establish accessible collection points.

August 2021 saw the legal prohibition of e-waste disposal in landfills.
South Africa commemorated International E-Waste Day on 14 October 2026.

The Big Picture

The push for improved recycling follows the introduction of the Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations. This policy marks a structural shift in how the nation manages waste, moving responsibility toward producers to ensure the circular processing of electronic materials.

Residents can contribute to national sustainability efforts by utilising designated municipal or local collection points for their old electronic devices. By doing so, they ensure that hazardous components are handled safely rather than being discarded in regular waste.

The takeaway

Effective e-waste management is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of households and businesses. Citizens are encouraged to check with their local municipality for the nearest authorised recycling facility to dispose of old electronics correctly.