Ever peeked into your drawer full of old chargers, old phones, and earbuds and so on? That’s e-waste, and it’s piling up fast! It is way faster than the rate of e-waste recycling. We are in a culture where new smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs arrive every few months. However, proper methods of recycling or awareness still don’t exist prominently.
The result? In 2025, the world is generating more than 62 million tons of it annually (report by WHO). In India, we hit 1.75 million tons in 2024. That’s a whopping 73 per cent jump in just five years! Sadly, only about 22 per cent gets recycled properly worldwide.
The blockers include a lot of myths around e-waste recycling. That’s why you are reading this today. Let’s smash ’em one by one!
Also read: How Cashify Is Turning India’s E-Waste Management Into a Sustainability Movement?
1st Myth: E-Waste Is Just Old Waste – No Value In It!
Reality: E-waste is not just ordinary garbage.
It consists of many precious metals that hold value or can be repurposed. Gold, silver, copper, and palladium are commonly found in old gadgets. At the same time, toxic substances such as mercury, lead, and cadmium are also present. When not disposed of properly, they may harm the environment and human health.
Recycling e-waste through authorised recyclers ensures safe extraction of these precious metals. In a broader aspect, it also prevents pollution.
2nd Myth: Recycling One Phone Doesn’t Make Any Difference
Reality: Every single device matters!
According to CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) data, India generated over 1.6 million tonnes of e-waste in 2024. This number is expected to grow even more in 2025. If every individual recycled just one old phone, we could recover tons of reusable metals and reduce mining for new ones.
Small steps at an individual level can make a huge collective impact.
Also read: E-Waste Solutions: Disposing Of Old Mobile Phones in India
3rd Myth: Only Big Stuff Like TVs Counts
Reality: Every bit counts!
From TVs, laptops, smartphones, to tablets, speakers and more! A ton of old phone packs at least 10 times more gold than a ton of mined ore. Batteries, chargers, earbuds- they are loaded with value. Recycle everything you possibly can!
4th Myth: E-Waste Recycling Is Only for Big Companies
Reality: Not at all! Every citizen plays a role.
We all know how corporate e-waste is a major concern. But households contribute a significant share of discarded electronics. From old phones and chargers to broken irons and TVs, coming out of only 1000 households makes up a massive number. The government’s E-Waste (Management) Rules 2022 encourage everybody to dispose of electronics. You can do that through authorised recyclers.
Also read: How You Can Help The Environment By Selling Your Old Phone On Cashify
5th Myth: Throwing E-Waste In Regular Trash Is Okay
Reality: This is one of the worst mistakes.
Many independent households in India and even many societies don’t follow a proper waste management system. When you mix e-waste with regular garbage, it messes up the whole chain. E-waste ends up in landfills or gets burned, releasing poisonous fumes and contaminating air, soil, and water. Proper segregation and recycling protect both the environment and communities.
Always look for collection points or pickup services that segregate different types of waste. They are probably already doing the e-waste recycling process. Or simply think of selling off the old items to authorised or certified platforms like Cashify.
Also Read: Ways In Which Recycling Helps Our Environment
Myth 6: Recycling Is A Hassle
Reality: It’s actually simple and often rewarding!
Many recycling platforms in India offer doorstep pickup of old gadgets and even pay you for them. You can sell or recycle your old devices from the comfort of your home, saving time and earning some extra cash. Cashify is the best platform to approach in this field.
So, recycling isn’t just good for the planet. Maybe it’s good for your pocket too!
Final Word
There are many more myths that hold back common people from taking the initiative. Many simply don’t care because they aren’t aware of the impact they can create in reversing climate change. So, next time you upgrade your phone or laptop, don’t toss the old one in a drawer or the bin! Sell or recycle it responsibly. Your small action today can make a big difference for tomorrow’s planet.
Also read: How Cashify Complies With E-Waste Management Rules
If you’ve just bought a new phone and don’t know what to do with your old phone, then here’s your answer. Sell your old mobile to Cashify and get the best price for it. If you are planning to buy a new phone, check out Cashify’s refurbished mobile phones. You can get your favourite phone at almost half price with a six-month warranty, 15-day refund and free delivery.
