To celebrate Qatar Sustainability week, Qatar Foundation is allowing communities to recycle their e-waste by dropping off old and used electronics at specific collection points in Education city, marking their second annual e-waste drive.

Launched in October, the collection bins are located in Multaqa (Education City Student Center), the Penrose House (LAS Building), and Lulu Express at housing lot 4, a part of Qatar Foundation’s e-waste drive. In collaboration with Al Haya Waste Management & Projects Company WLL, products can be deposited until the end of December.

Desktop computers, laptops, monitors, printer and copier toners, cartridges, keyboards, televisions, scanners, audio-video equipment, mobiles, telephones, and microwaves comprise of items that can be deposited. On the other hand, air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, and fluorescent lamps will not be accepted.

Aisha Ghani, Environment Specialist, Health, Safety, Security & Environment Directorate at QF, stated, “Last year, the campaign lasted seven days. This year, we are delighted to have extended it to three months. We decided to lengthen the campaign because of the overwhelmingly positive response we received last year, with more than 4.5 tons of e-waste collected in just seven days. Ultimately, we aim to make these bins semi-permanent features.”

After collecting, labeling, and packing the recycled products at Al Haya’s facility, they are shipped to a special recycling factory known as Cimelia in Singapore. They are then converted into plastic, copper, and aluminum to be made into new products in different factories.

According to Ghani, E-waste is a growing global problem, and 2019 set a record for the most amount of e-waste generated worldwide. This is a huge concern, as electronics can contain hazardous materials, and, if not discarded correctly, can contaminate water sources and damage the environment.”

“This is a nationwide recycling drive. We are trying to lead by example and encourage the nation to take a stand. And it is especially timely this week with Qatar Sustainability Week taking place.”

Click here for more information on Qatar Foundations' sustainability efforts.

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