From spare charging cables and old earphones to mini fans and unused power banks, small electronic items can easily accumulate in our homes. While each may seem insignificant on its own, the amount of e-waste generated adds up. 

Every year, Singapore generates around 60,000 tonnes of e-waste, from discarded household appliances and office equipment to the gadgets we no longer use. 

Held annually on 14 October, International E-Waste Day raises awareness of responsible electronic waste management. For its ninth edition in 2026, the global initiative shines a spotlight on “Fast Tech”, drawing attention to the small, affordable devices we often overlook, and the importance of recycling them properly when they are no longer needed. 

There are many ways to make a difference when it comes to e-waste, whether it is finding the right way to recycle unwanted electronics, repairing faulty items instead of replacing them, or understanding how e-waste is processed. This International E-Waste Day, discover three practical ways to rethink how we use, maintain and dispose of our electronics.

Give Unwanted Electronics a New Destination with TakeBag

If you have old phones, power banks, or unused laptops collecting dust in a drawer, TakeBag offers a convenient way to recycle them responsibly. Introduced by KGS, TakeBag is a free e-waste recycling initiative in Singapore that makes recycling unwanted electronics simple, safe, and convenient. 

With over 46,000 TakeBags distributed and more than 7,000kg of e-waste collected, the initiative has made responsible recycling part of everyday life. You can simply order a free TakeBag through their website, have it delivered to your home, and fill it with eligible electronics. When you are ready, drop it off at any of the more than 1,100 participating Pick! lockers islandwide. 

Beyond e-waste collection, KGS offers sustainable solutions including secure data destruction, laptop refurbishment, and responsible recycling of batteries and solar panels. Together, these efforts support a circular economy and minimise environmental impact.  

To explore TakeBag’s recycling initiatives, you can visit here.

Give Your Electrical Items a Second Life at a Community Repair Workshop

When a gadget stops working, replacing it with a newer model may seem like the easiest option. However, repairing faulty electronics where possible can extend their lifespan, reduce unnecessary purchases and prevent them from becoming e-waste prematurely. 

If you have an electrical item that needs fixing, Kebun Baru Heights Residents’ Network’s free monthly Community Repair Workshop offers an opportunity to give it a second life instead of throwing it away. 

Run by a group of dedicated volunteers, the workshop welcomes residents to bring along faulty items, pick up practical repair skills or simply observe and learn. It encourages us to make better use of the things we own, reduce unnecessary replacements and keep usable items out of the waste stream. 

Held on the second Saturday of every month, the workshop is open to anyone keen to explore more sustainable ways of maintaining and reusing everyday items. 

If you are interested in joining, you can register here.

Step Inside the World of E-Waste Recycling with SK tes

Even with careful use and repairs, some electronics eventually reach the end of their useful life. Responsible recycling helps recover valuable materials from these devices, allowing them to be put to further use instead of going to waste. 

As part of Clean and Green Singapore Experiences, SK tes offers a behind-the-scenes visit to its e-waste recycling facility, where visitors can learn how discarded electronic devices are processed and valuable components recovered. 

The visit gives families a closer look at what happens to electronics after they are sent for recycling, highlighting the importance of proper e-waste disposal as small electronic devices become increasingly common in our daily lives. Understanding how these materials are recovered can also help us make more informed decisions about managing our unwanted gadgets.  

Suitable for participants aged 12 and above, the visit includes transport between Jurong East MRT Station and the facility. Here is your chance to turn curiosity about e-waste into a hands-on learning experience – book your spot today. 

Small Gadgets, Bigger Impact

In a world where electronic gadgets are easy to buy and replace, the choices we make can help reduce the amount of e-waste we generate. Whether it is recycling unused devices, repairing faulty electronics or learning how discarded gadgets are processed, every step helps us make better use of the resources we have. 

Let’s commemorate this International E-Waste Day by making sustainability part of family time. A hands-on experience today can go a long way in inspiring more mindful choices about the devices we use, keep and eventually let go of. 

To mark this occasion, you can join our Facebook and Instagram Giveaway for a chance to be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40) that consists of a foldable umbrella, reusable straw, and grocery net bag. 

Simply answer the question in our comments section: “Name 1 e-waste initiative from our blog that you and your family would like to take part in.” The contest ends on 31st October 2026. Terms and Conditions apply.

Together, let’s #PowerTheChange by building a greener, brighter home for tomorrow.