E-waste, or electronic waste, includes old, non-working, and end-of-life electronic devices and their components. Also known as Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), it is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the Philippines, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) - Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).

E-Waste Zero is Globe’s sustainability initiative that promotes responsible e-waste disposal and recycling. Launched in 2014 as Project 1 Phone, the program provides a platform where customers and organizations can donate old or broken electronic devices. The goal is to keep e-waste out of landfills and ensure that devices such as old mobile phones, broken chargers, and other electronic gadgets are properly recycled.

As a telecommunications company, Globe plays an essential role in promoting circularity in e-waste management. From network equipment used in operations to mobile and broadband devices distributed to customers, various forms of e-waste exist within our value chain.
 

By championing circularity, we help ensure that products are kept in use for as long as possible, reducing waste and improving resource efficiency.

Since its launch in 2014, the program has:

• Collected and recycled 216.7 metric tons of e-waste from individuals and organizations

• Deployed 120+ e-waste collection bins nationwide

• Partnered with 80+ organizations to expand collection efforts

• Established a community-based e-waste Treatment, Storage, and Disposal (TSD) facility in Malabon City in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), DENR, and Ecowaste Coalition

• Earned global recognition from GSMA as a best practice for take-back and collection programs

Starting September 1, 2023, the program will focus on mobile and broadband devices to align with global industry trends set by GSMA, the global association of mobile network operators. This will help us maximize our impact and improve circularity within our industry.

The program now accepts only devices that are part of Globe’s value chain, including:

• Mobile phones, tablets, and smart wearables (e.g., smartwatches)

• Broadband devices (e.g., modems, routers)

• Mobile accessories and peripherals (e.g., charging cables, adapters, earphones)