Global e-waste is growing faster than our ability to recycle it. The UN’s Global E-waste Monitor 2024 found the world produced 62 million tonnes of electronic waste in 2022.
The numbers
That is about 7.8 kilograms per person on Earth, according to the report.
Only 22.3 percent was documented as formally collected and recycled.
Where it is heading
E-waste is forecast to reach 82 million tonnes by 2030, while the documented recycling rate falls to 20 percent.
The UN says e-waste is rising five times faster than documented recycling.
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Value in the pile
The metals in 2022’s e-waste were worth about 91 billion dollars. Yet only 1 percent of demand for rare earth elements is met by e-waste recycling.
The fine print
Documented recycling leaves out informal recycling and devices kept in drawers at home, so the real picture is uncertain.
Why it matters
Old phones and laptops hold valuable metals. Repairing, reselling and properly recycling electronics keeps them in use.
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Submit your companySources: Global E-waste Monitor 2024 (ITU), UNITAR.
Key takeaways on global e-waste
Here is the short version on global e-waste. That is about 7. Only 22. E-waste is forecast to reach 82 million tonnes by 2030, while the documented recycling rate falls to 20 percent. The UN says e-waste is rising five times faster than documented recycling. The metals in 2022’s e-waste were worth about 91 billion dollars. Documented recycling leaves out informal recycling and devices kept in drawers at home, so the real picture is uncertain. Old phones and laptops hold valuable metals. Want a new eco fact every day? Sources: Global E-waste Monitor 2024 (ITU), UNITAR.
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