This collaboration integrates ThorTech’s comprehensive suite of radiation protection management programs into Desco’s recycling operations.

ThorTech’s turnkey solutions – including advanced radiation detection systems, regulatory compliance consultation, training courses, radiological emergency support and full-spectrum radiation safety consultations – ensure that every batch of incoming and outgoing material is thoroughly screened and certified to be free from radiological contamination.

This proactive approach is critical in an industry where hazardous materials, spanning medical, military, and industrial sectors, may inadvertently enter the recycling stream.

With a core focus on generating a circular economy, ensuring that radioactive materials do not enter the recovery process becomes important.

According to Dr. Ryno Botha, ThorTech CEO and founder the core of our service is to address the growing challenge of orphan and radioactive sources that are inadvertently introduced into recovery facilities. “Even with strict regulations under the Hazardous Substances Act, many facilities struggle to meet legal standards for managing radionuclides.”

“By being proactive, we not only help manage orphan sources but also protect facilities, enhance their operational quality, and improve overall risk management. Our goal is to ensure that no hazardous material compromises a facility’s operation,” he adds.

Desco managing director Giulio Airaga says ThorTech has provided a value-added service to Desco with an innovative radiation monitoring program (RPM) that detects orphan sources and ensures its products are free of radiation contamination.

“In the e-waste sector, where miscommunication or inadvertent errors regarding hazardous materials can occur, this partnership is a crucial upgrade. It ensures our facilities are protected and that our clients receive the highest standard of safety and compliance,” he explains.

Recent market research by Gartner underscores the strategic importance of advanced safety measures in the electronics recycling industry. Gartner’s latest analysis projects that the global e-waste recycling market will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 9.2% over the next five years.

Findings indicate that over 35% of recycling facilities have encountered compliance challenges related to unidentified radioactive materials – an issue that significantly elevates operational risks.

Integrating advanced safety technologies such as ThorTech’s state-of-the-art radiation controllers can reduce operational disruptions by as much as 20% while achieving cost savings of up to 15% by minimising regulatory non-compliance risks.

These detailed insights confirm that implementing proactive radiation protection measures is essential for safety and a strategic driver for improved efficiency and competitiveness in the industry.

This recognition highlights Desco’s role as a tier 1 e-waste recycling facility and its commitment to advancing sustainable electronic waste management practices on the continent.

The workshop – organised in collaboration with the Africa Institute, the Basel Convention and BRS Conventions, and supported by UNEP – brought together approximately 70 participants from 20 African nations, including Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and others.

Delegates benefited from comprehensive sessions covering national legislation updates, enforcement strategies, and progressive approaches to e-waste management.

Giulio Airaga, Desco’s managing director, says the facility tour was an essential part of the event, providing participants with a detailed, end-to-end understanding of the e-waste recycling process.

“We demonstrated how material is sourced from public, private, and individual contributors before being transported and processed. Many delegates had questions about how we collect materials and ensure responsible recycling from start to finish. The tour allowed us to unpack these steps in detail.”

“The dismantling process begins with careful hand dismantling, which is crucial for safety and the effective separation of different materials. This contrasts with the more primitive methods still used in some regions. After dismantling, materials undergo a series of mechanical processes, including cable granulation to recover copper, plastic granulation, and the separation of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Each step ensures that we extract maximum value from e-waste while adhering to global environmental and safety standards,” he explained.

Beyond the tour, Airaga highlighted that the most valuable aspect of the workshop was the interactive Q&A sessions.

“Delegates were particularly interested in understanding how they could implement similar practices in their own countries. Many were curious about how materials transition from discarded electronics to refined commodities ready to be reintegrated into manufacturing. Our role in consulting and guiding these processes was a key takeaway.”

The workshop provided an invaluable platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing among regulators, industry experts, and environmental advocates.

By showcasing these structured recycling processes, the event empowered regional expertise and inspired significant improvements in e-waste management.

It reinforced commitments to the Basel Convention’s principles and highlighted the importance of transitioning Africa towards a more sustainable circular economy.

As we approach 2025, the call for businesses to prioritise sustainability and accountability has never been louder – or more urgent.

With stakeholders demanding tangible action, IT asset disposition (ITAD) emerges as a critical area where responsible recycling and sustainable practices can drive meaningful impact.

This pivotal shift challenges companies to rethink how they manage end-of-life IT assets, transforming potential waste into opportunities for environmental stewardship and innovation.

Sustainability as a key priority

Sustainability is no longer optional – it’s essential. Stakeholders, investors, regulators, and consumers alike demand concrete efforts to reduce waste and embrace circular economy principles. Businesses are now expected to deliver robust sustainability reports that showcase tangible environmental progress, particularly in managing IT waste.

Providers of ITAD services play a pivotal role in this transition. By enabling companies to track environmental impact, reduce emissions, and recover valuable materials, ITAD solutions empower organisations to align with these rising expectations.

Enhanced sustainability reporting

One of the trends for 2025 is that the demand for detailed sustainability reporting will intensify. Companies must provide clear data on waste management, emissions reduction, and material recovery to meet compliance standards and build stakeholder trust.

ITAD providers that integrate advanced reporting capabilities offer businesses the tools to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability effectively.

Circular economy in recycling

The circular economy is reshaping industries, especially recycling and refurbishment. Extending the lifecycle of products and minimising environmental impact are becoming central to business strategies.

Recovery of precious metals

Precious metals like gold, silver, and palladium, found in printed circuit boards (PCBs), are gaining renewed attention. Recovering and reusing these materials allows businesses to reduce reliance on virgin resources and create sustainable products, from ICT equipment to jewellery. Effective e-waste recycling ensures these materials are diverted from landfills, supporting a more sustainable future.

Sustainability marketing

Businesses are increasingly marketing their sustainability efforts to appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Highlighting initiatives like using recycled materials or recovering e-waste components not only strengthens brand image but also aligns with broader environmental goals.

Growing demand for refurbished IT Equipment in Africa

Africa’s digital divide underscores the importance of affordable IT solutions. Refurbished IT equipment is emerging as a vital resource for schools, businesses, and individuals with limited budgets. Providing cost-effective refurbished devices helps extend technology lifecycles while promoting digital access in under-resourced areas.

Stricter e-Waste regulations

Governments are tightening regulations around electronic waste to hold businesses accountable. Policies like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) require companies to manage the end-of-life disposal of their products. Non-compliance risks fines, reputational damage, or even market bans. Navigating these regulations requires careful planning and compliance-focused solutions.

Public pressure and brand reputation

The rise of public scrutiny, amplified by social media, leaves no room for environmental neglect. Companies that mishandle e-waste risk losing consumer trust and tarnishing their reputation. Proactively addressing these challenges is essential for maintaining credibility.

Looking ahead

2025 will be a transformative year for ITAD and e-waste management. Businesses must embrace sustainability, leverage circular economy practices, and comply with increasingly stringent regulations.

These trends for 2025 are not just challenges – they are opportunities to drive positive environmental change while meeting the growing demands of a conscientious marketplace.

With over 95% of these products ending up in landfills, Desco stresses the critical need for baseline incentives to promote responsible recycling.

“We need rapid growth in accessible and visible vape recycling drop-off points and proper financing for genuine recycling solutions to recover materials,” said Giulio Airaga, Desco director. “Until single-use vape producers, importers, and retailers comply with and finance their legal environmental responsibilities, calls for banning their sale will only grow stronger.”

Desco emphasises the need for consumer education on recycling single-use vapes, innovations to enhance recycling rates and take back schemes where retail outlets can be a place to recycle these products.

More importantly, compliance with current regulations, and investment in waste collection points both at point of use and point of sale. These measures are crucial for reducing the environmental impact of single-use vapes.

The improper disposal of e-waste, including vapes and e-cigarettes, poses severe environmental and health risks.

These devices contain hazardous materials such as lithium-ion batteries, which can leak toxic substances if not handled correctly. This growing concern highlights the need for improved recycling infrastructure and public awareness campaigns.

“E-cigarettes are becoming an exploding waste stream,” he warns. “These products are easily accessible, relatively inexpensive, and often disposed of improperly. With less than 5% of the market likely recycling these products, it’s probable that over 95% end up in landfills. This is a major issue because they contain lithium-ion batteries.”

Research by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) underscores the urgent need for better e-waste management practices.

The CSIR study reveals that South Africa generates approximately 360,000 tons of e-waste annually, with a very small percentage being recycled.

Airaga emphasises the importance of incentivising consumers to return used vapes and e-cigarettes for proper disposal. “Producers, sellers, can ensure the responsible handling of these devices and mitigate their environmental impact.

Desco Electronic Recyclers calls on all stakeholders to take immediate action in establishing and promoting robust recycling programs.

By working together, the industry can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of disposable vapes and e-cigarettes and move towards a more sustainable future.

As global concern for the environment escalates and regulators take measures to tackle electronic waste (e-waste), particularly through the enactment of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws, it becomes imperative to carefully evaluate the costs and advantages associated with EPR compliance.

The mounting accumulation of discarded electrical and electronic gadgets poses a significant challenge for South Africa.

As per information provided on Gauteng’s official government platform, the nation generates approximately 360,000 tons of e-waste annually, with the Gauteng province contributing to 55% of this total.

It’s imperative to enhance consumer awareness regarding the proper disposal methods for their electronic devices to prevent an environmental crisis.

EPR legislation

In November 2021, a significant milestone passed for manufacturers, importers, and distributors in South Africa dealing with electric and electronic equipment, lighting products, batteries, and packaging.

Although the new EPR legislation places the responsibility on importers and manufacturers to ensure environmentally friendly management of their products, which may include product recycling, its success could be severely impeded if consumers remain uninformed about how to handle their old appliances.

The EPR legislation marking a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to address the mounting issue of e-waste and promote a circular economy.

This legislation obligates producers to take responsibility for their products throughout their entire lifecycle, ensuring responsible recycling and disposal at the end of their usefulness.

The aim of EPR legislation is clear: to curb the environmental impact of waste products, particularly e-waste and lithium-ion batteries, which have long plagued landfills and ecosystems.

However, while the legislation presents a necessary step forward, its implementation has faced challenges and met with resistance from producers.

EPR legislation encompasses a range of products, including e-waste, lighting, batteries, and packaging. Among these, e-waste and lithium-ion batteries stand out as focal points due to their significant environmental impact and complex recycling requirements.

Guidance and support for producers

As a result, many producers have turned to companies like Desco Electronic Recyclers for assistance in the complexities of EPR compliance, particularly in the realm of e-waste and battery recycling.

With over three decades of experience in electronic recycling, the company can help producers fulfil their obligations under EPR legislation.

In recent years, it has expanded its services to include the recycling of lithium-ion batteries, recognising the critical need to address this emerging waste stream.

Through pilot studies and investment in technology, Desco has developed specialised solutions for lithium-ion battery recycling, providing producers with a viable option for responsible disposal. However, despite the availability of recycling solutions, producers have faced reluctance and pushback in complying with EPR legislation.

For many, the prospect of additional costs and administrative burdens associated with EPR compliance has been met with resistance. Moreover, the role of Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) in enforcing compliance has led to further apprehension among producers.

Driving positive change 

As a trusted partner for producers, Desco offers guidance and support in addressing the complexities of EPR compliance.

By providing transparent reporting and tailored solutions, the company enables producers to meet their obligations under the law while minimising the administrative burden and costs associated with compliance.

Central to its approach is the emphasis on choosing the right PRO and ensuring transparent communication between producers, recyclers, and regulatory authorities.

By facilitating direct access to data and compliance reporting, Desco empowers producers to make informed decisions and advocate for their interests within the EPR framework.

Through innovation, collaboration, and advocacy, the company aims to drive positive change in the electronic recycling industry and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

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