TL;DR: Don’t bin old tech. Drop off e-waste where batteries are handled safely and storage is wiped or destroyed. We can issue a Certificate of Data Destruction (CoDD) on request and we’re local to Stellenbosch.

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

We accept most small–medium electronics common to student homes 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, watches
Networking: routers, mesh nodes, switches, LTE/5G modems
Peripherals: monitors, printers/scanners, docks, chargers, cables, mice/keyboards, webcams
Power gear: UPS units/adapters (remove loose batteries if possible)

Unsure about a very large item (copier/server rack/CRT)? Ask first via Contact us.

Battery safety: how to prepare and transport

Lithium-ion cells are recyclable but hazardous if bent or punctured.

Do this

Power down the device; if the pack is swollen, avoid pressure on the case.
Tape terminals and place each cell/device in a separate clear bag or small box.
Transport flat, not in a pocket or tightly packed backpack.
Bring directly to us or a qualified drop-off—never general bins.

Don’t do this

Don’t pierce, fold or “deflate” swollen packs.
Don’t toss Li-ion into refuse/skip bins.
Don’t ship damaged batteries without proper declaration/packaging.

Read our policy → E-waste policy

Your data: wipes, destruction & CoDD (POPIA-aware)

Before devices leave controlled storage, we:

Log the device (serial/asset where available).
Perform a verified software wipe (NIST 800-88 r1) or crypto-erase when supported by the drive.
If media is unreadable or fails verification, we physically destroy it (punch/shred) and document the method.
On request, issue a Certificate of Data Destruction (CoDD) for your records.
Handle data under a POPIA-aligned process (least-privilege access and secure storage of any artefacts).

Request a certificate → Certified Wipe (CoDD)

Drop-off and collection options (Stellenbosch)

Drop-off: fastest for laptops, drives, phones and small peripherals.
Collection: by arrangement for residences/offices and bulk items.
Larger/odd items: we’ll route you to the right partner recycler.

Have a question first? Contact us

Quick prep checklist (before you arrive)

Sign out of iCloud/Google/Microsoft to avoid activation locks.
Remove SIM/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 data if the device is still functional.

Why proper e-waste matters

Electronics combine valuable materials (aluminium, copper, gold) and hazardous ones (lead, mercury, lithium). Responsible recycling reduces mining, prevents landfill fires from damaged batteries, and protects your identity through secure data handling.

E-waste in Stellenbosch (2025): safe battery disposal & data-wipe certificates