E-waste and the UN International Day of Zero Waste

At Circular, we resonate deeply with this initiative, as it aligns with our mission to revolutionise the way we consume technology.

Understanding the zero waste imperative

The numbers are staggering – humanity generates around 2.24 billion tons of municipal solid waste annually, with only a fraction being managed responsibly. Our planet is struggling with the triple threat of climate change, biodiversity loss, and escalating pollution. The need for zero-waste initiatives has never been more pronounced.

Zero waste and the tech industry: a crucial intersection

The tech industry, often overlooked in discussions of waste, plays a pivotal role in this narrative. From e-waste to the unsustainable cycle of consumption and disposal, the need for change is evident. This is where Circular's vision for a zero-waste future comes into play.

E-waste isn’t just a Australian problem. The world’s obsession with technology has resulted in e-waste becoming the fastest-growing waste stream on Earth, with the former head of the United Nations Environment Programme describing the unfolding crisis as a “tsunami of e-waste.” Approximately 50 million metric tons of e-waste are produced globally every year, out of which only 20% is formally recycled, according to a report by the World Economic Forum. That report estimates that this total could more than double to 120 million metric tons by 2050 if no action is taken. Source: World Economic Forum

Circular's contribution to zero waste goals

At Circular, we're not just about providing access to the latest tech; we're about creating a paradigm shift in how tech is consumed. Our subscription model champions the principles of the circular economy, ensuring that every device gets a second life, thereby reducing e-waste and conserving resources. It's a small step for tech, but a giant leap for sustainability.

With Circular, sustainable tech isn't a luxury; it's a standard. We offer the newest gadgets from leading brands like Apple and Samsung, not as products to own, but as experiences to enjoy, where you are the custodian of the device for a period of time – all without the hefty environmental price tag. This approach aligns with the ethos of the International Day of Zero Waste, marrying innovation with responsibility.

Empowering a sustainable future: the role of technology in a zero-waste world
While recognising the importance of observing this International Day of Zero Waste; it's not merely about adopting a single day's worth of eco-friendly practices; it's about actively trying to establish a lifestyle that respects and revitalizes our environment.

Choosing a tech subscription, over buying your devices, means you're not only accessing the latest in technology; you're aligning with the global movement towards zero waste. It may feel small, but you're actively participating in helping to build a path towards a more sustainable future.

According to the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water in 2019 Australia generated 511,000 tonnes of e-waste. That means the average Australian produced 20 kg of e-waste, compared with the global average of 7 kg. By 2030 the national total is projected to rise by nearly 30%, to 657,000 tonnes. So now is the time to make a change in how you think about tech and device ownership.

By shifting the focus from tech consumption to tech utilization, we can all make strides in the health of our planet. Every step we take towards zero waste, every decision to choose the sustainable option helps. So, let's embrace this opportunity to transform the way we all interact with technology, ensuring it serves not just our needs but also the needs of our planet.

Looking for a few more simple sustainable actions you can incorporate into everyday life? We got you. Check out our Top 5 blog.