TL;DR: Don’t bin old tech. Drop it at a responsible e-waste point where storage is wiped or destroyed and batteries are handled safely. We accept most small electronics, can issue CoDD on request, and help with POPIA-aligned handling.

What counts as e-waste (and what we take)

We accept the majority of small to medium devices typically found in student flats and SMEs:

Computers & parts: laptops, desktops, mini-PCs, RAM, GPUs, PSUs, motherboards
Storage: HDDs/SSDs, external drives, USB sticks, memory cards
Mobiles & tablets: phones, tablets, smart watches
Networking: routers, mesh nodes, switches, LTE/5G modems
Peripherals: monitors, printers/scanners, docks, chargers, cables, mice/keyboards, webcams
Power gear: UPS units and adapters (please remove loose batteries if possible)

If you’re unsure about a very large item (large copier, server rack, CRT display), ask first via /contact/.

Batteries: the safe way to dispose (especially swollen Li-ion)

Lithium-ion cells are recyclable, but they’re also a fire risk when bent, punctured or tossed into general bins.

Do this:

Power down the device. If the battery is swollen, avoid pressing on the case.
Isolate terminals with tape (electrical/insulation). For loose cells, put each in a separate clear bag or small box.
Transport flat, not in a pocket or tight backpack.
Bring directly to us or a qualified drop-off—never curbside bins.

Don’t do this:

Don’t pierce a swollen pack to “deflate” it.
Don’t throw Li-ion into general refuse or skip bins.
Don’t ship damaged packs by courier without declaration and proper packaging.

Your data: wipe requirements, POPIA and CoDD

Under POPIA, you’re responsible for the personal information on devices you retire. We follow a “image or wipe before exit” approach:

Intake & ID – device logged with serial/asset tag.
Verified wipe – NIST-aligned software wipe for HDD/SSD where healthy.
CoDD on request – we issue a Certificate of Data Destruction confirming method (software wipe or physical shredding/punch).
Exceptions – if a drive is unreadable, we physically destroy it and document the method.
Chain of custody – devices are stored in a controlled area until processed.

Need the policy details? See our E-waste Policy → /legal/ewaste-disposal/
Need a certificate for audit? Request CoDD → /services/certified-wipe/

Responsible routes in Stellenbosch

Drop-off with us – quickest for laptops, drives, phones and small gear.
Collection – available by arrangement (residences, offices).
Large/odd items – we’ll guide you to the right recycler partner.

We separate hazardous components (batteries, lamps), recover reusables (RAM/drives when appropriate), and send the rest to accredited recycling streams. Consumer devices that still work may be sanitised and donated where suitable (with your consent).

Before you drop: quick prep checklist

Sign out of iCloud/Google/Microsoft (prevents activation locks).
Remove SIM cards and microSD cards if you need them.
Include power supplies for laptops/routers if available.
Label anything that must be returned (e.g., drive caddies).
Back up important files if the device is still functional.

Fees & timing

Most small e-waste drop-offs are free; special handling may apply for large batteries/UPS packs or on-site collection. We’ll confirm at check-in. CoDD issuance is included when you book Certified Wipe.

How we handle displays, printers and UPS units

Monitors/TVs: modern LCD/LED accepted; very old CRT units may require directed disposal—ask first.
Printers: remove ink/toner where possible; we can take standard home/SME models.
UPS: bring the unit; we’ll remove and process the internal batteries safely.

Why proper e-waste matters

Electronics contain valuable materials (aluminium, copper, gold) and hazardous ones (lead, mercury, lithium). Recycling reduces mining and prevents landfill fires from damaged batteries. Equally important, secure data handling protects you under POPIA and avoids identity fraud.

Ready to clear a drawer (or a storeroom)?

Read our policy → /legal/ewaste-disposal/
Request a certificate → /services/certified-wipe/
Arrange drop-off/collection → /contact/

We’re local to Stellenbosch and happy to help you recycle responsibly.