AIRTEL, ERICCSSON PARTNER IN E-WASTE DISPOSAL

BUUMBA CHIMBULU writes
@SunZambian
Airtel Networks Zambia and Ericsson have partnered to drive responsible e-waste disposal and recycling in the country.
The partnership with Ericsson on a ‘Product Take-Back’ programme meant to minimise the potential environmental impact associated with the disposal of decommissioned electrical equipment.
The Product Take-Back program is part of Ericsson’s Sustainability efforts geared towards taking accountability for environmental impacts of all products and services during their lifecycle.
The program ensures that end-of-life material is treated and recycled in an environmentally responsible manner.
Airtel believes that the adoption of responsible e-waste disposal techniques would help to manage the impact on the environment, says company Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Apoorva Mehrotra.
Mr Mehrotra said in a statement that Airtel was committed to being socially responsible.
“We are collaborating with Ericsson in e-waste management to not only evacuate the waste but also educate the general public and all key stakeholders about the importance of the proper disposal of e-waste in the country,” he said.
Airtel continues to be committed to ensuring that the beauty of Zambia is sustainably conserved and understands that environmental impact starts with its own operations.
Todd Ashton, Vice President and Head of Ericsson East and South Africa said his company aimed to minimise the negative environmental impact of its own activities and products in operation, while delivering solutions to enable the low-carbon economy.
“Our partnership with Airtel in Zambia extends the scope of our Product Take-Back program to include creating awareness about e-waste and helping to ensure that end-of-life material is waste-treated in an environmentally responsible manner,” Mr Ashton said.
Ericsson provides free product retrieval and safe disposal services for equipment that has reached its shelf life, as part the company’s extended producer responsibility.
The company offers the program to all customers globally, which guarantees that e-waste does not end up in trade-restricted areas or landfills.