In a world dominated by rapid technological advancements, the question of what to do with old gadgets has become increasingly important. As devices become obsolete or are upgraded, the issue of electronic waste, or eWaste, has gained prominence. South Africa is no exception to this trend, with electronic waste being the fastest growing stream of waste in the country. In a 2-part interview with eNCA's presenter Marcelle Gordon, the founder of You Made This, Dominic Humphry-Arewa, speaks about taking a creative approach to address this problem.
YMT's artists have harnessed the power of art to communicate the urgency of proper eWaste management. In collaboration with corporations like Absa and Mimecasts, as well as companies like Xperien, the initiative repurposes discarded electronics into compelling artworks that deliver a vital message. eWaste isn't merely about numbers; it's about the environmental and health implications that arise from incorrect disposal.
Humphry-Arewa highlighted that eWaste often ends up in landfills, contaminating soil and water sources, and consequently affecting the food and water supply. He emphasized the need for a shift in consumer behavior and corporate responsibility to tackle this problem. The initiative encourages a mindset change, advocating for responsible disposal, refurbishing, and reusing electronics rather than perpetuating a culture of constant upgrading.
#YMT engages the public through interactive exhibits and installations strategically placed in public spaces. These art pieces provoke conversations around eWaste, driving both consumers and corporations to recognize their roles in mitigating this growing issue. The initiative's aim isn't just to turn waste into aesthetically pleasing creations, but to catalyze change in perceptions and actions.
The initiative's success has led to international recognition, with exhibitions held in London and other prominent locations. Dominic Humphry-Arewa expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to raise global awareness about South Africa's eWaste challenge and stressed the importance of involving corporations in addressing the issue.
Collaborations with companies like Xperien, which specializes in IT asset disposition and proper eWaste disposal, have paved the way for effective corporate involvement. Despite regulatory limitations in South Africa, initiatives like #YMT have managed to bridge the gap between responsible consumer behavior and corporate responsibility.
By transforming discarded gadgets into thought-provoking artworks, #YMT transcends geographical boundaries to amplify the call for responsible eWaste management. The initiative not only addresses the problem at hand but also inspires a broader conversation about sustainable consumption and environmental preservation.
Watch the full interviews here:
You Made This is an art based initiative centred on raising public awareness & engagement around the issues of electronic waste. Through interactive art installations & experiences, #YMT intensifies awareness about eWaste's environmental damage & the imperative of its correct disposal. #YMT collaborates with artists & endorses a circular economy of refurbished electronics, urging corporations & individuals towards responsible eWaste management. #YouMadeThis #Ewaste #ewasteART #Art #ewasteart #ENCA