New research from Virgin Media O2 reveals that UK households could be missing out on an average of £638 by failing to recycle old electronic devices. The study, released ahead of Global Recycling Day on March 18, estimates that 92 million devices—including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and gaming consoles—have been discarded with household waste over the past five years. This improper disposal has cost the average household approximately £370 in lost resale value, underscoring the financial impact of electronic waste.

Despite widespread awareness of the environmental impact, many individuals continue to dispose of electronics irresponsibly. While 65% of respondents acknowledged the harm caused by improper disposal, 79% admitted to throwing old devices in the bin rather than opting to recycle or resell them. Virgin Media O2, which operates the O2 Recycle programme, is urging people to rethink their habits and recycle or donate their unused technology. The initiative, open to customers of any mobile network, accepts a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, wearables, and gaming consoles.

The research also sheds light on a culture of tech hoarding, with 74% of respondents admitting to holding onto unused devices for at least five years. However, the study found promising signs of change: 81% of respondents said they would recycle their devices if they could earn money for them, and 72% expressed a willingness to donate their technology to those in need. Virgin Media O2’s O2 Recycle programme offers a practical solution, incentivising recycling by providing monetary rewards and promoting donations to reduce tech waste.

Campaigners and environmental advocates are calling for greater awareness and action to address the growing issue of electronic waste. Discarded devices often end up in landfills, where they can release harmful substances into the environment. Virgin Media O2’s findings highlight the need for better recycling options and education to ensure that old tech is repurposed or recycled responsibly, benefiting both the environment and consumers’ wallets.

The survey, conducted by Strand Partners, involved 1,020 UK residents and analysed their disposal habits over the past five years. National estimates for discarded and hoarded devices were calculated using 2023 census data. The financial value of these devices was determined using O2 Recycle’s valuation data, which revealed the significant monetary potential of recycling unused electronics. By making recycling more accessible and rewarding, initiatives like O2 Recycle aim to reduce waste and encourage a circular economy for electronic devices.