Increasing numbers of Veterinary clinics are recognising the importance of adopting more eco-friendly practices in every aspect of their operations. From rethinking their purchases to switching to reusable materials; more and more clinics are taking action to make their practices more environmentally sustainable.  

It comes as no surprise, therefore, that a recent British Veterinary Association (BVA) survey1 found that 93% of vets say that sustainability is important to them. One impactful area where clinics can contribute immediately is the responsible recycling of end of life electricals. From specialised veterinary equipment to computers and the kettle in the staff room, these items can accumulate over time, and disposing of them properly is essential to reducing waste and preserving the valuable resources inside of them.  

With limited storage space and the need for newer, more efficient technology, many clinics find themselves wondering what to do with these unwanted items. To provide guidance on the correct pathway for responsible recycling of electrical items, The Webinar Vet turned to REPIC, the UK’s leading Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) compliance scheme, for advice.  

Head of Operations, Laura Crehan, from REPIC shared her thoughts on a recent webinar with The Webinar Vet and expands on this topic further in this insightful post: 

Overview of international e-waste regulations 

“Both international and local legislation is increasingly strict about the disposal of electrical waste, with laws such as the EU’s WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Directive and similar regulations worldwide mandating responsible disposal and recycling.  

“Proper disposal is crucial to not only comply with your country's legislation but also to maintain the valuable resources found in these products. Electricals contain both valuable and hazardous materials such as copper, lead and mercury. By recycling electricals properly, not only does it stop these materials being discarded into landfill and posing a threat to the local environment, it can help reduce the need for new raw materials to be mined and help lower greenhouse gas emissions.” 

What to do with broken electricals? 

“When dealing with broken or outdated electricals, we openly encourage all Veterinary clinics to follow the "Three R's" in the waste hierarchy - Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle - remembering this order can help guide clinics toward more sustainable practices that minimise waste and environmental impact. 

1. Reduce: First, clinics can aim to reduce the amount of electrical waste generated in the first place. This could mean investing in durable, high-quality equipment that lasts longer or opting for multi-functional devices that can perform several tasks, reducing the need for multiple machines. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can also extend the lifespan of existing equipment, delaying the need for replacements. 

2. Reuse: For devices that are still functional but no longer meet the clinic’s needs, consider options for reuse. Older equipment might be repurposed within the clinic for secondary tasks, reducing the demand for new purchases. Alternatively, some devices could be donated to a local charity or organisation to be repurposed for local schools or training clinics, therefore extending the useful life of the equipment and providing resources to others. 

3. Recycle: When equipment is beyond repair, recycling is the best option. Many parts and materials, such as metals, glass, and plastics, can be recovered and repurposed from electricals, keeping valuable resources in circulation and reducing the need for the extraction of new raw materials.  

Enquire about trade-ins for your e-waste 

Clinics should first enquire directly with the manufacturer or retailer as many offer trade-in programmes, which are a convenient option for clinics looking to upgrade their equipment, while ensuring the responsible disposal of old devices. Some companies may provide discounts or credit toward newer models when clinics trade in outdated equipment. These programmes not only make it easier to access the latest technology but also ensure that older devices are recycled properly.  

Take back options for your e-waste should be explored 

In addition to the trade-in programmes, many manufacturers have take-back options specifically for their products, even if they’re not eligible for a trade-in. Manufacturer’s take-back services, handle everything from collection to eco-friendly disposal. These programmes are typically listed on the manufacturer’s website, making it easy for clinics to find recycling solutions tailored to the devices they use. By reaching out to the manufacturers directly, clinics can ensure their outdated equipment is recycled efficiently and sustainably. 

Take stock of your e-waste  

Veterinary clinics can help to make a difference by identifying any unused or broken electricals that may be accumulating and explore responsible disposal options. Whether through trade-ins, or manufacturer’s take back programmes, each effort contributes to helping to create a cleaner, safer environment for humans and animals alike.