Mayo Residents Invited to Participate in Free E-Waste Collection Events

Mayo residents are being urged to dispose of their electronic and electrical waste responsibly by attending the upcoming free collection events organized by WEEE Ireland in partnership with Mayo County Council. These initiatives aim to ensure that the county meets its national e-waste recycling targets for 2025, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

Event Schedule and Details

The first event of the series will take place this weekend, on Saturday, February 22nd, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Mayo County Council car park in Cong. The following Tuesday, February 25th, The Boat Park in Westport Quay will host a similar collection from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Lastly, on Thursday, February 27th, Ballavary’s Main Street will see a collection event beside Dey’s Shop from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Collections will continue throughout March with additional events scheduled in various locations across the county. Participants can bring any electronic items with plugs, batteries, or cables for free recycling, including washing machines, TVs, toasters, kettles, electronic tools, toys, cables, IT equipment, mobile phones, remote controls, and even watches.

The Importance of E-Waste Recycling

According to data, Mayo achieved a 10.07 kg per person e-waste recycling rate in 2023, just below the national average of 10.33 kg per person. E-waste is a growing concern due to its hazardous components which, if not managed correctly, can wreak havoc on the environment. Responsible recycling practices not only protect the environment but also reclaim valuable materials, reducing the need for virgin raw materials.

In response, WEEE Ireland is dedicated to supporting our community in meeting EU targets. By 2025, the EU aims for at least 25% of raw materials from e-waste to be recycled annually. WEEE Ireland handles over two-thirds of national waste electrical and electronic collection activities on behalf of 1,355 producer members, ensuring a sustainable future for all.

How to Participate

Attending a collection event is a straightforward process. Simply bring your electronic waste items to the designated sites during the scheduled times. Items should include, but are not limited to, washing machines, TVs, toasters, kettles, electronic tools and toys, cables, IT equipment, mobile phones, remote controls, batteries, including farm fence batteries, and even watches.

These free events are a collaborative effort between WEEE Ireland and Mayo County Council. For more information regarding future collection events, interested parties can visit www.mayococo.ie.