The Rise of “Fast Tech”: A Growing E-Waste Concern

A surge in demand for cheap, short-lived electronic gadgets—dubbed “fast tech”—is raising alarms among environmental groups.

These low-cost items, often discarded after minimal use or left forgotten in drawers, are contributing to a mounting e-waste crisis, according to the not-for-profit organisation Material Focus.

One striking example is the spike in sales of battery-powered mini fans during last year’s heatwaves, with over seven million units sold. But it doesn’t stop there—nearly £8 million was also spent on novelty items like LED balloons, mini karaoke machines, and even light-up toilet seats.

Material Focus reports that consumer spending on fast tech has quadrupled since 2023, reaching an estimated £11.6 billion. The trend mirrors the rapid rise of fast fashion, with similarly harmful environmental consequences.

Despite their low price tags—sometimes under £1—these gadgets often contain valuable materials like copper. A previous study by the group found that unused electronics stored in UK homes could hold over 38,000 tonnes of copper, a resource critical to the transition to greener technologies.

Scott Butler, Executive Director at Material Focus, likened the trend to previous consumer waves: “We had fast food, then fast fashion—now it’s fast tech.” He urged consumers to pause and consider whether they truly need the latest gadget, and to recycle unwanted electronics responsibly.

Joe Iles from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which champions a circular economy, believes the issue is solvable. “These throwaway habits are a recent phenomenon,” he said, pointing to growing markets for refurbished and durable electronics. He also highlighted the importance of policies like the Right to Repair and Extended Producer Responsibility to drive better product design and recycling practices.

Greenpeace UK’s Laura Burley added that fast tech often combines plastics and electronics in ways that are difficult to recycle, calling it “a toxic cocktail.” She stressed the need for manufacturers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products and design them to last.

The message is clear: consumers can make a difference by choosing more sustainable options. Sometimes, the simplest solutions—like opening a window instead of buying a mini fan—are the most effective.