But rather than seeing these as roadblocks, Desco Electronic Recyclers views it as a springboard for innovation.

Here’s how the company is overcoming these challenges with practical, forward-thinking solutions.

Giulio Airaga, managing director of Desco, views these challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation.

“Recognising the financial burden that collection can impose on customers, leading some to opt for improper disposal methods, we’ve initiated several projects to mitigate these issues.”

In collaboration with partners like the E-waste Recycling Authority (ERA) and Makro, Desco introduced ‘eWaste Bins’ at accessible retail locations. This initiative simplifies the disposal process for consumers, encouraging responsible recycling practices.

“We’ve established branches across various regions, including Kempton Park, Belville, and Briardene, to facilitate easier access for informal collectors. By purchasing materials directly from these collectors, we incentivise the collection of e-waste and integrate informal recyclers into the formal recycling ecosystem,” he explains.

Understanding the vital role of waste pickers, Desco has developed programs to support and collaborate with them.

These individuals are crucial to the recycling ecosystem, and by providing fair compensation and resources, the recycler enhances their effectiveness and promote sustainable practices.

Beyond addressing collection challenges, Desco has made significant advancements in recycling technologies and processes:

• Comprehensive Recycling Services: The company specialises in dismantling electronic products into various commodities, focusing on plastic granulation, cable granulation, and circuit board grinding. This approach ensures that valuable materials are recovered and reintroduced into the manufacturing cycle.
• Data Safety Initiatives: Recognising the importance of data security, Desco has implemented protocols to ensure that all electronic waste is processed with the utmost attention to data destruction, safeguarding our clients’ information.

“Looking ahead, we see immense potential in the e-waste recycling sector. With Africa’s rapidly growing population and workforce, the volume of electronic waste is increasing. This presents an opportunity not just for waste management, but for job creation and environmental stewardship,” Airaga concludes.

By fostering a culture of responsible recycling and investing in the necessary infrastructure, we can turn the e-waste challenge into a sustainable industry that benefits both the economy and the environment.

In conclusion, challenges in e-waste collection and recycling are undeniable, but they are not insurmountable.

Desco chooses to view these challenges as catalysts for innovation, driving the company to develop solutions that benefit its customers and the communities it serves.

Held at Irene Country Lodge in Pretoria, the event convened over 100 industry leaders, including auto-mobility, mining, and logistics professionals, to address critical challenges in scaling electrification across the region.

Giulio Airaga, managing director of Desco, emphasised the urgency of building robust battery recycling ecosystems to support South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) transition.

“The challenge isn’t just recycling batteries – it’s ensuring they reach recyclers efficiently.

“A fragmented collection system and informal disposal channels hinder progress. Partnerships between manufacturers, logistics providers, and policymakers are essential to close this gap,” he stressed.

Desco’s core focus is mechanical processing for lithium-ion battery recycling. However, the company is researching better options, either hydrometallurgical or pyrometallurgical extraction.

Given the wide variability in battery chemistries, choosing between these advanced methods is complex and often influenced by market availability and cost considerations.

The decision to invest in one over the other requires careful analysis, as no single approach is universally suitable for all battery types.

He said the need for ‘mandatory take-back programs and deposit schemes’ to secure end-of-life battery flows, highlighting DHL’s potential role in reverse logistics.

Airaga also highlighted partnerships with OEMs like Daimler Truck Southern Africa and logistics leaders like DHL to streamline collection.

“Daimler could integrate battery take-back into dealer networks, while DHL develops specialised transport protocols for hazardous materials,” he explained.

DHL outlined the company’s EV logistics solutions, including safety-compliant battery transport and circular supply chains.

EV Logistics also emphasised DHL’s investments in fire-resistant packaging and regional infrastructure to support electrification.

In addition, Daimler Truck Southern Africa discussed strategies to boost electric commercial vehicle adoption, including localised supply chain resilience and dealer network adaptations.

In response to the closing question on scaling recycling, Airaga urged policymakers to enforce traceability standards like battery passports and incentivise closed-loop systems. Other panellists echoed the need for regional infrastructure investments and regulatory alignment to accelerate Africa’s electrification.

The panel marked the launch of the Electric Vehicle Centre of Excellence (EV CoE), a collaborative initiative to drive innovation in South Africa’s auto-mobility sector.

Desco’s participation underscores its commitment to advancing circular economy principles and positioning Africa as a leader in sustainable EV ecosystems.

Electronic devices are everywhere, yet many older models are often left unused in storage rooms. While these tools are essential for business operations, their limited lifespan presents a challenge: what innovative solutions can organisations implement to manage outdated or malfunctioning equipment effectively?

If one considers the complexities of IT Asset Disposition (ITAD), a pressing question arises: is destruction the only option for old electronics?

The answer is a resounding no. Refurbishing electronics not only extends the life of these assets but also contributes to a circular economy – a model that CEOs should seriously consider for both environmental and financial benefits.

The case for refurbishment

When electronic devices reach the end of their usable life, many organisations opt for immediate destruction. However, this approach overlooks the potential value locked within these assets. Refurbishment offers a viable alternative that aligns with responsible corporate governance principles while promoting sustainability.

By refurbishing, businesses can reduce waste. Refurbishing electronics minimises landfill contributions. The circular economy emphasises reusing materials and products, which lessens the environmental impact of electronic waste. With the global e-waste crisis escalating, businesses have a crucial role in mitigating this issue.

One can also recover value, many devices contain components that are still functional or can be easily repaired. By refurbishing, organisations can recover value from these assets rather than writing them off entirely.

This practice not only saves money but can also generate new revenue streams when refurbished products are resold.

More importantly, one can enhance brand reputation. Today’s consumers and clients are increasingly environmentally conscious. By adopting refurbishment practices, companies can bolster their reputation as responsible corporate citizens committed to sustainability. This can enhance customer loyalty and attract new clients who prioritise eco-friendly practices.

Financial benefits of refurbishment

From a financial perspective, refurbishing electronics presents a compelling case for CFOs looking to optimise their budgets and enhance profitability:

Cost Savings: Refurbishing equipment often costs significantly less than purchasing new devices. Organisations can allocate saved resources to other critical areas, such as research and development or employee training.

Extended Asset Lifespan: By refurbishing existing hardware, companies can extend the life of their ICT assets. This approach delays the need for new purchases, allowing organisations to maximise their existing investments.

Tax Benefits: Depending on regional regulations, businesses may receive tax incentives for engaging in environmentally friendly practices, including refurbishment and recycling.

Reduced Disposal Costs: Proper disposal of electronic waste can be expensive due to regulatory requirements and potential penalties for improper handling. By refurbishing and reusing, organisations can minimise these costs.

A strategic approach to ITAD

To implement effective refurbishment practices, organisations must prioritise a comprehensive ITAD strategy. Partnering with accredited vendors like Desco Electronic Recyclers ensures secure data destruction and responsible recycling of end-of-life devices. With over twenty years of experience in the field, Desco not only guarantees certified data erasure but also offers refurbishment services for assets that still hold value.

This partnership enables businesses to streamline their ITAD processes while adhering to environmental regulations and enhancing overall operational efficiency. By adopting a zero-to-landfill approach, organisations can further demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility.

Refurbishing electronics is a powerful strategy that aligns with the principles of the circular economy. For CEOs, this approach not only represents a step towards sustainability but also offers significant financial benefits.

By embracing refurbishment, organisations can reduce waste, recover value, and enhance their brand reputation – all while contributing to a greener future.

It’s time for companies to recognise that destruction is not the only option; refurbishment is a viable and beneficial alternative worth pursuing.

As the demand for energy-intensive recycling of various electronic waste streams grows, the company’s ability to power its machinery sustainably marks a significant advancement in the industry.

This green energy initiative is part of its broader mission to lead the recycling industry toward sustainability.

By offering recycling solutions for both commercial and consumer electronics, Desco plays a pivotal role in reducing electronic waste and promoting environmental stewardship.

Starting in 2021 with the installation of a 200-kilowatt hybrid inverter connected to the ESCOM grid, Desco has since expanded to operate with a 500-kilowatt off-grid inverter, a 700-kilowatt power supply, a 650-kilowatt PV supply, and 800 kilowatts of storage power.

In an industry where many rely on fossil fuels, the electronic recycler stands out by utilising solar power for all its machinery. This commitment to green energy not only reduces the company’s carbon footprint but also sets a benchmark for others in the e-waste recycling sector.

“Our shift to renewable energy is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability and responsibility,” said Giulio Airaga, Desco director. “By leveraging green energy, we ensure that our mechanical processing infrastructure operates with uninterrupted power, significantly reducing our carbon footprint and promoting resource efficiency.”

A key aspect of its success is the scalability of its energy systems. With each introduction of new machinery to handle different types of waste, the energy demands increase.

The company has consistently upgraded its energy systems to meet these demands, ensuring every expansion is powered by green energy.

This innovative approach to solving recycling challenges with sustainable energy sources showcases the company’s commitment to resource efficiency.

Its achievements in integrating green energy and sustainable recycling underscore its role as a responsible leader in the industry, dedicated to recycling for the greater good and contributing to a circular economy.

Desco’s partnership with Ferro Energia has been instrumental in this green energy transition. Known for their exceptional customer service and rapid response times, Ferro Energia has provided crucial support, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum efficiency.

“Ferro Energia has been an outstanding partner. Their responsiveness and support have been essential in maintaining our green energy systems. This collaboration highlights how industry partnerships can drive significant progress towards a greener future,” he concludes.

Desco has reached a significant milestone in its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

As a pioneer in recycling a diverse range of electronics – from ICT devices and telecom infrastructure to medical equipment and military hardware – it is now at the forefront of green energy utilisation in the recycling industry.

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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