Electrical and electronic waste contains materials that can be recovered, and some that should not end up in landfill. EU rules give shoppers several ways to hand old equipment back.

Ask when you buy a replacement

When you buy a new appliance, ask the retailer whether they will collect the old one on delivery and whether there is a charge.

Small items and batteries

Many larger shops have collection points for small electronics and batteries. Ask in store before you make a special trip.

Wipe your data first

Before handing over phones, laptops or storage drives, back up what you need and reset the device to remove personal data.