Singer continues to spearhead e-waste collection

Disposing of redundant electronic goods in an environmentally responsible manner is vital as failure to do so can cause irreversible damage to our health and environment. Aligned to the government’s vision and Singer’s business values, the organisation constantly seeks to minimize the effects of its operations and that of its customers through sustainable business models. Focusing on the environment, the group is committed towards promoting the awareness of responsible electronics disposal nationwide.

“Our motive to be a driver of positive change in society begins with conducting business responsibly. We want to make recycling electronics as easy as purchasing electronics. Spearheading countrywide e-waste collection we promote environmental stewardship,” said Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC Director Human Resources Neminda Karunaratne.

To date, the company has led the removal of a significant quantity of e-waste, which otherwise would have the potential to cause damage to the environment and the well-being of communities. The company annually spends a substantial sum of money in ensuring the e-waste is disposed properly through the approved e-waste disposal companies. Each year, the company has increased its capacity of e-waste collected.  

Singer encourages the public to hand over their electronic waste to any Singer Plus, Sisil, Singer Mega branch and Singer service centres spread islandwide which act as collection stations. Customers can deposit their e-waste at these locations throughout the year.  Singer also understands the importance of providing consumers with convenient opportunities to recycle their old electronics. Thus, customers can also avail themselves of discounted trade-in offers should they wish to dispose of old products.  “Singer has partnered the Central Environment Authority (CEA) and approved licensed waste management companies to correctly dispose of the e-waste collected. We see this as an opportunity to engage with customers and our citizens to spread the word about the responsible recycling of e-waste. Providing customers convenient and easy locations to drop off their e-waste contributes towards a cleaner environment and sets an example as a responsible corporate citizen leading the way,” added Singer Sri Lanka Director Sales and Commercial 
Mahesh Wijewardene.

Since 2010, Singer has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the CEA to assist local authorities in the management of e-waste on a national scale.
 Under its guidance, the Singer group follows UN BASEL convention regulations in collecting, transporting and storing e-waste for recycling.

“Sustainable waste management is extremely important in protecting our planet and recovering valuable natural resources. Safely managing the increasing volume of used and obsolete electronics is a growing challenge as new devices are introduced into the marketplace with greater frequency,” said CEA Assistant Director Solid Waste Management Mahesh Jalthota. 
“I commend Singer’s initiatives of providing convenient and easy locations for citizens to drop off their e-waste and also adhering to rigorous international standards. The group showcases its commitment to making a difference in the lives of fellow citizens,” he noted.