Whitegoods

Whitegoods are generally composed of valuable metals and plastics which can be recycled. Recycling whitegoods diverts large waste items from landfill and helps prevent toxic substances such as flame retardants from entering the environment.

Whitegoods includes:

Dishwashers Fridges & Freezers Washing Machines & Dryers
material
Whitegoods

Why Recycle?

Whitegoods are a category of large domestic appliances such as air conditioners, fridges, freezers, dryers and dishwashers. These items consist of valuable metals like steel as well plastic components that should be recycled. Recycling whitegoods diverts large waste items from landfill and can help prevent toxic materials entering into the environment such as heavy metals and brominated flame retardants. Recycling whitegoods can offer costs savings by avoiding landfill fees for these heavy waste items and reducing energy bills through removal of old efficient appliances. Refurbishing whitegoods also provides affordable home wares for resale through charitable organisations or second-hand dealers.

Recycling Options

A number of commercial recyclers and scrap metal yards will accept whitegoods for recycling. This may be through a pick-up or drop-off service. Additionally there are organisations and second-hand dealers that will accept whitegoods for refurbishing and/or resale.

What Happens When It’s Recycled?

Refurbishing: Still-working but unwanted whitegoods are collected and where needed refurbished such as fitting new doors or seals.

Recycle: Safely recycling white goods involves firstly removing any hazardous materials such as gases, chemicals or heavy metals from the appliance. Whitegoods are then crushed and shredded for recycling. Copper, steel and plastics are recovered and reprocessed into new metal and plastic products.

More Info & Sources

Recycling Expert - Recycling Whitegoods