Irish consumers contributing to rise in discarded e
Irish consumers are increasingly purchasing low-cost, disposable electronic items, leading to a significant rise in e-waste. Data shows that nearly half of these items are discarded shortly after purchase, highlighting a growing environmental concern.
Why it matters
The trend of 'fast tech' contributes to global electronic waste crises and highlights the need for more sustainable consumer habits and circular economy practices.
Irish consumers are fuelling a "fast tech" trend of low-cost, small electronic items, leading to a mountain of discarded e-waste, new data has revealed.
In the 12 months to July 2026, almost half of Irish people (44%) discarded a fast-tech item - usually bought on impulse or as a novelty - unused, after a single use or within a month.
A third had thrown at least one item in a bin and a quarter kept them at home, with fewer than half using a recycling centre.
The major European online study, conducted in July, found that nearly nine in ten Irish consumers purchased fast-tech electronics such as mini fans; festive lights and decorations; wireless headphones and speakers; and power banks and chargers in the previous 12 months.
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