Costa Rica Launches E-Waste Collection Campaign Amid Rising Global Electronic Waste Concerns

Alajuela, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is ramping up efforts to tackle electronic waste (e-waste) with the launch of its third and final RAEE-TÓN of 2024, an initiative aimed at the education, collection, and management of electronic waste. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Environment and Energy, and the Latin American Electronic Waste Project (PREAL), the campaign coincides with the global World E-Waste Day, celebrated in October. This year’s event seeks to reverse the country’s low recycling rate of electronic waste, which remains below 10%.

This third RAEE-TÓN represents a vital opportunity for all sectors to contribute to responsible e-waste management in Costa Rica. By participating, we not only protect the environment but also support the local economy and improve the quality of life in our communities

Ricardo Morales, Head of Environmental Health at the Ministry of Health

Global and Local E-Waste Challenges

The issue of electronic waste is a growing global concern. The Global E-Waste Monitor 2024 reports that a staggering 62 million tons of e-waste were generated worldwide in 2022—a significant 82% increase since 2010. Without effective interventions, this figure is projected to rise to 82 million tons by 2030. Alarmingly, only 22.3% of e-waste generated in 2022 was correctly collected and recycled, underscoring a significant gap in global recycling efforts.

In Latin America, the situation is similarly troubling. The 2022 Regional Monitor of Electronic Waste in Latin America revealed that the region generated 1.3 million metric tons of e-waste in 2019, equating to around 6.7 kg per capita. Despite the presence of collection systems, just 2.7% of this waste was managed in an environmentally responsible way.

Costa Rica is not exempt from these challenges. The country generated approximately 69,671 tons of e-waste in 2021, yet managed to recycle only 8.2% of that amount, despite a 12% improvement from 2020. These figures reflect the urgent need for better systems to manage e-waste and reduce its environmental impact while also capitalizing on its economic potential.

Citizen Participation: What Can Be Recycled?

The RAEE-TÓN campaign invites Costa Rican citizens to participate by responsibly disposing of their old electronic devices at over 370 collection points spread across the country. Items such as large and small household appliances—including washing machines, refrigerators, televisions, computers, cell phones, and printers—are among the acceptable devices for recycling. For larger items, citizens are advised to coordinate with collection points in advance to ensure smooth disposal.

The campaign also introduces a new symbol, Raeelus-Ticus, a butterfly mascot representing Costa Rica’s commitment to improving e-waste management and fostering a circular economy. This engaging symbol will be present at collection points, encouraging public involvement and awareness.

The Road Ahead for E-Waste in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s RAEE-TÓN initiative is part of a broader global effort to combat the growing e-waste crisis. As the demand for electronic devices continues to rise, so too does the need for efficient recycling systems that mitigate the environmental risks posed by improperly discarded devices. By increasing public awareness and facilitating easy disposal through multiple collection points, Costa Rica aims to enhance its recycling rate and align with global sustainability goals.

The participation of every citizen is crucial to creating a sustainable and circular economy in which electronic waste becomes a resource rather than a hazard.

Ricardo Morales, Head of Environmental Health at the Ministry of Health

The campaign serves as a reminder that responsible management of electronic waste is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity. With better recycling systems in place, Costa Rica could transform a significant portion of its e-waste into valuable materials, supporting both the local economy and global supply chains.

Listed below are all of the electronic waste collection points that are available for you to bring your electronic devices to. It is important to mention that many of these centers are available year-round and not just during the month of October.

By focusing on education and practical collection efforts, this year’s RAEE-TÓN aims to bridge the gap between Costa Rica’s current recycling rates and the growing volumes of electronic waste.

For further information, visit ministeriodesalud.go.cr

About the Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health of Costa Rica is responsible for promoting and protecting public health through various initiatives, including environmental health programs. With a focus on sustainability and community welfare, the Ministry leads efforts to address the health impacts of environmental hazards, including the management of electronic waste.