Record recycling of electronic devices last year

Belgians brought an average of 11.4kg of electrical appliances to a collection point in 2024, according to new figures from recycling association Recupel.

Recupel collected a record 134,446 tonnes of discarded electrical appliances last year, or 45 million appliances – four million more appliances than in 2023.

“Thanks to the efforts of millions of Belgians and our partners, we have broken an absolute record,” said Recupel chief executive Eric Dewaet.

“We are particularly proud of this result and pleased to be contributing together. Every appliance, large or small, that is given a new lease of life has a positive impact on our environment.”

According to Recupel, 90% of the appliances collected are given a new life.

Some are recycled into raw materials for new appliances or for industry, while others are destined for the reuse sector.

In 2024, Recupel launched an awareness campaign to encourage people to return their used appliances, to which they credit the record-setting figures.

Although 2024 was a record year, Recupel estimates that there are still 55 million unused electrical appliances in Belgian households.