Where to Recycle Electronics and E-waste in Johannesburg

As technology becomes a common feature in our everyday life, so does the need to recycle electronics that are damaged or outdated. Broken electronics and other kinds of e-waste often pile up in homes or, worse, end up in landfills. It includes phones, televisions, and even laptops.

Most people don’t know what to do with these old gadgets. To help you live more consciously, we’re listing all the spots in Joburg where you can drop off e-waste.

What is E-waste?

E-waste stands for electronic waste. It includes any device that needs electricity or batteries to work. From cracked cellphones that cannot be repaired to dusty desktop computers, all of it becomes e-waste once it’s no longer useful. These items are not just junk. They are full of metals and chemicals. If dumped in landfills, they leak toxic substances into the soil and water, which can affect plants, animals, and people.

E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. The good news is that when you recycle electronics, you can recover useful materials like copper, silver, and gold that can be repurposed. That saves resources and reduces energy use. Every smartphone contains rare earth materials that are hard to replace. Throwing it away is a missed opportunity.

Recycle Electronics and E-waste in Joburg

There are many ways to recycle electronics in Johannesburg. Several companies and community groups offer collection points where you can drop off items like old phones, printers, chargers, and even batteries.

The collected e-waste goes to approved recycling centres. These facilities strip devices down, separate the parts, and manage any harmful materials safely. Below are some of the key drop-off spots:

Makro recycle electronics in Joburg | What's on in Joburg

Makro Ewaste bins

Makro offers convenient eWaste bins at selected stores across Johannesburg and the rest of the country. These bins are designed to help you recycle electronics safely and easily. You can drop off old phones, laptops, printers, batteries, and small household appliances. It’s a free service that supports the responsible disposal of e-waste.

The bins are clearly marked and usually placed near store entrances. No need to book or call ahead. Just bring your unwanted electronics during opening hours. Makro works with certified recyclers to ensure the waste is handled correctly.

Recyclex

RecycleX operates from a dedicated e-waste collection site in Pomona, Kempton Park, offering a comprehensive solution for electronic waste disposal. They accept a wide range of items, including computers, mobile phones, printers, and small appliances.

The facility ensures that all collected e-waste is processed responsibly, adhering to environmental regulations. RecycleX provides certified data destruction services, safeguarding personal and business information. Their commitment to sustainable practices includes refurbishing usable equipment, which supports digital access initiatives in underserved communities.

The Kempton Park site is easily accessible, with no appointment necessary for drop-offs during business hours. For larger quantities, collection services can be arranged. RecycleX’s approach combines environmental responsibility with community upliftment, making it a preferred choice for e-waste recycling in the region.

Pick n Pay

Pick n Pay and Pick n Pay Hypermarkets in Johannesburg have introduced e-waste recycling bins to help customers dispose of old electronics responsibly. These bins accept items like mobile phones, cables, kettles, and even larger appliances such as washing machines.

Located near store entrances or inside the stores, they offer a convenient way to recycle electronics without any cost. In partnership with EWaste Africa and the E-Waste Recycling Authority, the initiative ensures that collected e-waste is processed safely and sustainably. This effort not only reduces environmental harm but also supports job creation, including opportunities for people with disabilities who are trained in refurbishing and recycling electronics. Currently, bins are available at selected stores in Gauteng, with plans to expand to more locations.

Drop-off bin venues in Johannesburg include venues in Fourways, Kensington, Roodepoort, Alberton, Krugersdorp and many more.

Ewaste Africa

EWaste Africa runs a dedicated e-waste drop-off facility at Unit 78H, Van Dyk Secure Business Park, Boksburg East. This spot accepts a wide range of electronic items, including computers, mobile phones, printers, and small appliances.

The Boksburg East site is easy to reach for drop-offs during business hours. EWaste Africa’s approach combines environmental responsibility with community upliftment, making it a preferred choice for e-waste recycling in the region.

Desco Electronic Recyclers

You’ll find Desco Electronic Recyclers at the corner of West and Elgin Streets in Pomona, Kempton Park. They accept a wide range of items, including old computers, broken printers, and phones. If you’re looking to recycle electronics safely, Desco comes highly recommended. All e-waste is handled according to strict environmental standards. They also offer certified data destruction to protect sensitive information. The site is open during business hours and does not require an appointment.