Environmental awareness and sustainability are increasingly becoming priorities for people and the sector of electrical and electronic waste management, which is essential for building a greener and more responsible future.

With a growing dependence on technology in all spheres of modern life, the sector of electrical and electronic equipment is experiencing constant growth. However, this growth also brings significant challenges in terms of waste management and resource conservation.

The role of installers has become essential in this context. As key players in the supply chain, professionals have the opportunity to influence the choice and proper management of equipment, thereby contributing to reducing environmental impact and promoting the circular economy. From implementing efficient installation practices to promoting the reuse and recycling of obsolete equipment, committed installers play a crucial role in building a more sustainable future.

One of the most notable aspects of the Ecoinstaladores programme is its comprehensive approach to the life cycle of electronic devices. From design to dismantling, Ecoinstaladores ensure that products are managed responsibly, thereby minimising their environmental impact. Through rigorous training and the use of advanced technologies, these professionals become experts in dismantling and recycling electronic components, ensuring proper waste management and their reintegration into the value chain.

The importance of this initiative lies in its ability to raise awareness among professionals about the need for proper recycling of WEEE. Often, unused electronic devices end up in landfills or stored in our homes, resulting in a significant environmental burden. This programme strives to change this reality by educating professionals on the importance of properly separating and recycling WEEE. Additionally, it fosters collaboration with various stakeholders, such as manufacturers, distributors and local authorities, to establish efficient collection and recycling channels.

Sustainable uninstallation has not only an environmental impact but also social and economic effects. By ensuring proper handling of WEEE, the risks associated with soil and water contamination, as well as the release of toxic substances, are reduced. Moreover, recycling electronic components allows for the recovery of valuable materials, thereby reducing dependence on limited natural resources. This circular economy also creates jobs and promotes the development of a sustainable recycling industry.

Responsible management

At the end of their useful life, air conditioning systems require specific management to prevent adverse environmental impacts. In this context, it is crucial that installers properly uninstall and manage these obsolete devices. The pollution generated by air conditioners is primarily due to the presence of substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which contribute to global warming and the depletion of the ozone layer.

The decontamination of these units focuses on extracting potentially harmful components, notably capacitors with printed circuit boards, brominated flame retardants, as well as the oils and gases present in the refrigeration circuits, mainly fluorinated and chlorinated gases.

Air conditioning units are composed of a wide variety of materials, some of which are highly recyclable. Specifically, compressors, primarily made of metals like aluminium and copper, are highly valuable in recycling processes. Heat exchangers, composed of metals such as aluminium or stainless steel, are recyclable and suitable for metal recovery processes.

Committed installers

In this process, it is crucial for installers to take responsibility, ensuring the safe management of gases by preventing their release into the atmosphere and properly segregating materials. It is essential that materials are separated at the point of uninstallation to facilitate subsequent recycling processes.

With proper management, it is currently feasible to recycle almost 100% of the weight of air conditioning equipment waste, obtaining various fractions that can be recovered and reincorporated into the manufacture of new products. This sustainable approach not only preserves the environment but also contributes to the circularity of the materials present in the equipment.

For Ecoinstaladores it’s not just about recycling; it’s about recycling well.