As new research exposes the jaw-dropping volume and value of old electricals hiding in our homes, award-winning photographer Gregg Segal meets the people who aren’t taking the waste challenge lying down.
Small old electricals squirrelled away in our homes are worth millions of pounds – and they can be recycled and made into new products. This stuff can save lives and money.
New research finds 527 million unwanted electricals in our homes and that we throw away 155,000 tonnes a year, costing the UK economy £370 million.
Electricals contain precious materials like gold, copper and aluminium that can be recycled – with a re-sale value of £620 per household.
Recycling our old electricals would be worth billions, help the planet and provide materials for life-saving defibrillators, bicycles and more.
Even as we declutter, electricals tend to get left behind. The great news is that it’s easier than ever to recycle your unwanted electricals.
Did you know?
… if you’re feeling overwhelmed by those old electricals you don’t use any more: millions of us are finding it hard to let go.
But now you can.
Your stories
Downsy found life-saving treasure under the stairs
“Some of the research is incredible,” says DJ Downsy. And it’s not just the colossal amount of unwanted electricals hoarded in UK homes – including his own.
As a Type 2 diabetic with heart disease in the family, Ian’s passion for recycling hit new highs when he learned that old electricals can be turned into life-saving defibrillators.
Eye-opener
The award-winning photographer who captured the treasure hidden in our homes.
“It was a privilege to meet these people and capture their images, but it was also such an eye-opener to discover the scale of the problem. My hope is that by sharing these photos, people will consider what they do next with their small old electricals – I know I will.”
Enter your postcode to discover your nearest electrical recycling point.
