Belgium pushes smartphone reuse and safe waste sorting amid privacy and fire hazards

A study of 1,000 Flemish consumers by refurbed found that more than half are willing to recycle or repair their old smartphones, but 45% cite privacy concerns, 34% are unsure where to hand them in, and 37% consider the process too much trouble. The research highlights a gap between intention and action, noting that many devices end up stored in drawers despite the EU Right to Repair directive taking effect on 31 July, which obliges manufacturers to offer affordable repairs beyond the warranty period.

Separately, waste‑management organisation Fost Plus warned that empty lighter‑fluid bottles from barbecues are often mistakenly placed in the PMD recycling bag. Valerie Bruyninckx explained that residual flammable vapours can still be present, creating a fire risk in sorting facilities. Such containers should be disposed of as small hazardous waste and taken to a recycling park.