One in ten Brits have a room in their home that they're unable to use – because it is so cluttered with old items they no longer use or need, research has found.
The top objects taking up unnecessary space in UK homes include old games consoles (33%), mobile phones (49%), and cables (48%).
A survey of 2,000 homeowners found almost half (46%) admit to keeping hold of broken or defunct possessions, which they couldn't use even if they wanted to – with 38% of those doing so for up to a year.
The top reasons for this include not knowing where to take such items for recycling (49%) – and simply not knowing where to start when it comes to decluttering their homes (32%).
But over half (53%) reckon they would be more likely to dispose of their e-waste “properly” if there were convenient and accessible recycling options available.
The study was commissioned by Virgin Media O2 and Hubbub, which have launched the 2023 “Time After Time” fund – which is awarding a share of £500,000 to projects tackling e-waste and supporting digital inclusion in the UK.
Dana Haidan, chief sustainability officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “It’s so easy to accrue items – before you know it you have drawers full of random cables, old phones, and all manner of belongings.
“It’s no wonder people can feel unsure of how to get rid of their old tech, as they’re worried that if it’s thrown away, it’ll end up in landfill as e-waste, harming the environment.
“That’s why we’re launching 2023’s Time After Time fund, to help community groups and charities to run projects that both cut e-waste and rehome unwanted devices with people in need – which is a win-win for communities and the planet.”
Almost a quarter (23%) of all those polled have put unused or broken devices in the bin, with 57% who have done so claiming this is the most convenient way to get rid of such items – while 23% think this is how you are supposed to dispose of old tech.
However, on the flipside, 32% of all those polled are worried about their tech ending up in landfill – with 26% concerned their unwanted devices could harm nature and the planet if discarded.
And this might explain why 62% say they would be more likely to donate unwanted gadgets to someone in need – rather than throw them away.
The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found that 82% believe their community would be a better place to live if there were projects which prevented e-waste or fly-tipping in their area.
George Clarke, who is on the judging panel for the 2023 Time After Time fund, which is accepting applications until Friday, 20th October, said: “Sustainability and community are two causes that I’m incredibly passionate about, which is why it’s an absolute pleasure to be part of this year’s judging panel.
“It’s a fantastic initiative both tackling the nation’s growing e-waste problem, and helping those in need. I’m really looking forward to seeing the brilliant and inspiring ideas the applicants come up with.”
