The problem of electronic waste has been an issue for several years. However, the problem does not seem to have been brought under control so far. This applies to disposal by customers as well as by companies. In the future, at least end customers will be able to dispose of the unpleasant electronic waste very easily. As the federal government announced, stores with an area of ​​more than 800 m² should accept all waste electrical equipment. In addition, said shops also have to sell electrical appliances several times a year. However, since corresponding products are regularly sold even in the food discounter Aldi, it should not be a problem to find a store.

The return does not have to be free of charge. Devices with an edge length of up to cm are generally available from every retailer that meets the specified requirements, but it does not matter where they were acquired. The situation is different with larger products, such as washing machines or televisions. Acceptance only has to be made here if a new device is purchased.

This can still be implemented as easily as possible for local retailers. However, it becomes problematic with online retailers. Although they do not have to accept every old device, it also applies here that in the future electrical devices may no longer be sold unless they are also taken back. Initially, this should only affect large online retailers. So it should be possible in the coming year to dispose of your electronic waste free of charge at Amazon, as soon as you have ordered a corresponding new device. However, it remains to be seen whether customers make the effort and, for example, a 50 – customs – Laboriously pack the TV and then send it to you. Instead, a recycling center should offer itself as a more pleasant alternative.