Currys to recycle tech from Cancer Research UK shops

The charity will be able to drop off any unwanted tech from its charity shops, free of charge, at Currys’ delivery depots across the UK.  

Paula Coughlan, chief people, sustainability and communications officer at Currys, commented: “We are delighted to be able to support Cancer Research UK with this initiative – ensuring that any unsellable tech donations are responsibly recycled. It not only makes sure that the old and unwanted tech is safely recycled, but it also helps Cancer Research UK, an incredibly charity whose work is so important.” 

Currys currently recycles over 50,000 tonnes of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) every year.  

Cancer Research UK said that, while it receives many “generous donations”, some of the electronic equipment it receives is too old or not fit to sell and need to be recycled.  

Once the charity hands the tech over to Currys, it will be sent to its central sorting facility in Newark, Nottinghamshire, to be assessed. It will then either refurbished, repaired, have the parts harvested or be recycled.  

If it ends up being recycled, this volume will contribute to Currys’ overall WEEE collection volumes and will be used to offset its own producer obligation. 

Julie Byard, director of trading at Cancer Research UK, said: “We receive a great deal of high value donations across our shops thanks to our supporters – and we appreciate everyone who donates. Where we can’t sell donated tech, Currys’ support is incredibly helpful. It’s great to know that their well-established tech recycling operation ensures we can recycle responsibly.” 

Currys operates the same scheme with the British Heart Foundation charity.