A recent study by the Chinese Circular Economy Association estimates that the average lifespan of a mobile phone in China has dropped to approximately 2.2 years. Over the past five years, the country has produced over 4 billion discarded phones annually, resulting in a staggering 20 billion+ accumulated end-of-life devices.
That being said, a lack of proper e-waste management has led to a concerning issue. According to data, a mere 5% of discarded phones in China are recycled through professional channels, whereas around 54.2% of them are simply stored or kept idle.
It is essential for the government and industry stakeholders to implement effective measures to address this crisis and promote a more sustainable approach to consumer electronics disposal. Developing innovative recycling technologies, expanding collection facilities, and raising consumer awareness are crucial steps towards a more environmentally friendly future.