Electronic Waste – A Global Challenge
Globally, the problem of electronic waste is growing at an alarmingly fast rate. According to “Global E-waste Monitor 2024” data, a record 62 million tons of electronic waste was generated worldwide in 2022, 82% more than in 2010. Annually, this number grows by 2.6 million tons, and by 2030, electronic waste is projected to reach 82 million tons. This waste accumulates five times faster than recycling capacities grow. Only 22% is currently properly collected and recycled. This means that the remaining waste “drowns” gold, copper, lithium, and other valuable raw materials, with a total value of 91 billion US dollars, and only 19 billion of them are recovered.
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Campaign United Families
In the context of these challenges, the “Elektronika skraidina” campaign is not just an opportunity to win a prize, but also a conscious decision. During May, 192 participants registered approximately 343 devices for removal: televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, computers, dishwashers, and many other appliances. The campaign remained active until the last day, with people registering both online and by phone.
The most popular electronics submitted were televisions (72 units), refrigerators (64 units), and washing machines (59 units), together accounting for almost 60% of the total registered quantity. There were also unexpected finds, such as a recuperator, a treadmill, a record player, and a sewing machine. It seems that the campaign became a great opportunity to finally get rid of what had been standing in homes for years.
Linas Ivanauskas, head of the Electronics Distributors Association (EPA), notes that the campaign became not only an environmental but also a family initiative: “We noticed that children also registered electronics, helping elderly parents finally say goodbye to old devices. People mentioned that they learned about the campaign from their spouse. We are glad that sustainability is not a foreign word in families.”
“Elektronika skraidina” Winners
For active participation in the campaign, travel gift vouchers from tour operator TEZ TOUR were won by:
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Henrikas from Maišiagala – I place (1,000 EUR) Rolandas from Kaunas – II place (500 EUR) Tomas from Ukmergė – III place (500 EUR) Laima from Vilnius – IV place (300 EUR) Vaidotas from Kaunas district – V place (300 EUR) Kristina from Šilalė – VI place (300 EUR) Ramutė from Panevėžys – VII place (300 EUR) Birutė from Vilnius – VIII place (300 EUR)
The first-place winner won a trip by registering 2 washing machines, 2 hobs, an oven, and a microwave.
How to Say Goodbye to Old Electronics?
The Electronics Distributors Association (EPA) collects electronic waste free of charge throughout Lithuania directly from your home, at a time convenient for you. Register for removal online at epa.lt/nemokamas-buitines-technikos-isvezimas or by phone +370 69 555 111.
