Ewaste collected during the BEE campaign in Sibu.
NEARLY 176 tonnes of ewaste was collected in just four months from April 23 to Aug 25 across Sarawak as part of the statewide Electrical and Electronic Waste Collection Campaign (BEE).
The Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) said the collection came from Kuching Division with 106 tonnes, Samarahan Division (1.8 tonnes), Serian Division (11.5 tonnes), Sri Aman Division (9.2 tonnes), Betong Division (11.2 tonnes), Sarikei Division (5.3 tonnes), Kapit Division (4.6 tonnes), Sibu-Kanowit Division (3 tonnes), Bintulu Division (17.2 tonnes) and Miri (6.2 tonnes).
BEE is jointly organised by NREB and the state Environment Department (DOE) in collaboration with Sarawak Natural Resources and Urban Development Ministry, Public Health, Housing and Local Government Ministry, Kuching North City Hall, Kuching South City Council and Bintulu Development Authority.
“This campaign is one of the ways to deal with the unplanned disposal of ewaste.
“The government agencies involved and the contractors registered with DOE jointly went out to the field to collect BEE materials to dispose of or recycle them in compliance with provisions of the Environmental Quality Act 1974,” said the board in a statement.
Ewaste collected included laptops, desktops, printers, mobile phones, washing machines, air-conditioners and refrigerators that were damaged, obsolete or no longer usable.
The campaign also aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of ewaste to the environment and promote safe and environmentally friendly BEE handling and disposal methods to the local community.
“This campaign is also a call to the people to be jointly responsible in ensuring the sustainability of the environment in Sarawak,” the board said.
According to NREB, improper disposal of ewaste has a negative impact on humans, animals, aquatic and marine life.
The content of heavy metals such as nickel and mercury found in some BEE components can pollute river water, underground water and soil if not managed correctly.
The public can contact NREB at 082-482 535 for advice on disposal of damaged electrical and electronic wastes.
