International e-Waste Day, on 14 October, serves as a timely reminder that electronic waste (e-waste) remains one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, and due to the hazardous materials often contained in these products, their improper disposal continues to pose environmental and public health risks. Managed in collaboration with the e-Waste Recycling Authority (ERA) and Desco Electronic Recyclers, Massmart’s e-waste collection programme, enables customers to dispose of unwanted electronic products safely through dedicated collection points at Makro stores. Since its launch in 2008, the initiative has helped divert significant volumes of electronic waste away from landfill and into responsible recycling processes.
Commenting on this Massmart initiative, Viratha Hariram, Senior Manager: Sustainability & Regeneration at Massmart said, “Our aim to be a regenerative business extends beyond our own operations and includes creating practical solutions that make it easier for consumers to make responsible choices. We are grateful for the way that customers continue to embrace this programme and we are proud to have now collected over 1,800 tons of e-waste since its inception.”
A further differentiator of Massmart’s programme is the use of custom-built 20ft containers, which are large enough to accommodate products such as double-door fridges and chest freezers. Sustainability is a shared responsibility and in line with this, Massmart encourages consumers to continue gathering unwanted electronic items from their homes and make use of available e-waste collection facilities.
“Every mobile phone, appliance, cable or electronic device that is recycled rather than discarded helps reduce environmental impact and supports a more sustainable future for South Africa,” concluded Hariram.
Massmart advances circular economy through South Africa's longest-running retailer-led e-waste collection programme
