Uswitch comments on new research suggesting billions of mobile phones will impact global e-waste this year
Uswitch.com has issued the following comment in response to today's news that this year, 5.3 billion mobile phones will be thrown away in 2022, based on global trade data.
Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com, comments: “As a nation of hoarders, millions of tech-loving Brits will be adding to the growing problem of e-waste without realising it.
“Having a backup handset for emergencies or to pass on to a family member makes sense, but some households will have many old devices gathering dust in their drawers.
“The sustainability problem also extends to other devices, our research shows there are 22 million unused Wi-Fi routers cluttering people’s homes[1].
“Hanging onto old mobiles means consumers miss the chance to save money by trading them in and bringing them back into service.
“To help cut back on e-waste, consider doing an early spring clean and make sure unused tech is either reused, resold or disposed of sustainably.
“If changing your handset, consider picking a refurbished model. This will save you money at the same time as reducing the e-waste produced from buying a new smartphone.”
-ENDS-
Notes to editors
1. Uswitch: Consumers call for 'universal router' with 22 million unused Wi-Fi devices cluttering UK homes
About Uswitch
Uswitch is one of the UK’s top comparison websites for home services switching, including energy, broadband and mobiles.
More people go to Uswitch to switch their energy, broadband and mobile than any other site, and we have saved consumers over £2.7 billion off their bills since we launched in September 2000.
Free mobile app Utrack also helps households manage their home energy usage and make potential savings.
Uswitch is part of RVU, a group of online brands with a mission to empower consumers to make more confident home services, insurance and financial decisions.