15 March 2024 , 12:24
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Three-quarters of Gen Z admit to hoarding old, unwanted tech items in their homes – generating a massive 60,000 tonnes of electrical waste every two weeks, a study has found.
A survey of 1,000 adults, of the younger generation, found that 23% don't understand how to properly dispose of their old devices, with 35% feeling there is a lack of information on this topic. Meanwhile, one in four (26%) simply forget to recycle anything at all – although 44% would be more inclined to do so, if they were offered a cash incentive.
In light of the findings, Currys is offering rewards worth over £1,000, both in real life, and in the virtual world – through its brand-new, first-ever game within the popular video game universe, Fortnite. The free-of-charge, virtual experience, “Trash Tycoon”, challenges Gen Z players to go head-to-head on a mission to mine and recycle as much trash as possible, for valuable in-game and real-life rewards. And it aims to inspire these younger adults to make better choices when binning unused, unwanted, or even broken tech.
It comes as three-quarters of Gen Z admit to hoarding old tech items - generating a whopping 60,000 tonnes of e-waste every two weeks (Currys)Moira Thomas, director of sustainability at Currys, said: “I’m optimistic when it comes to the future of e-waste. We know people, particularly Gen Z, want to recycle their old tech – but there is a lack of knowledge about how to do so responsibly. That’s why we’re confident Trash Tycoon will break down barriers, helping people better understand the issue of e-waste, in a language they can relate to and take inspiration from, through the hugely popular game of Fortnite.”
The game’s Tycoon map serves as a visual representation of the 880 million unused and broken tech items hoarded in UK homes, by showcasing a virtual world made entirely of e-waste.
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TV presenter and DJ, Tyler West, who was the first to play the new game, said: “Trash Tycoon is a game-changer, quite literally. Gaming has definitely been my ultimate escape, and go-to “night in” activity. As a Fortnite fan, it’s refreshing to play a map that addresses real-world issues. It's about time we turn gaming into a force for good – I can't wait to dive in with my squad, and see how I can level up my base, whilst recycling tech trash.”
Environment Minister, Robbie Moore, added: “I hope tackling e-waste in the virtual world can help younger generations understand the importance of responsible waste disposal in the real world. It’s vital we turn the tide of e-waste, which sees 155,000 tonnes of electrical waste thrown in the bin every year. This is why we have set out new proposals to make it easier for householders to recycle their electrical goods, and to spark the move to a more circular economy.”