‘It’s cheap but it’s not disposable’: why fast tech is a growing waste problem

Low-cost and quickly discarded products are playing a key role in world's fastest-growing waste problem - electronics

It is cheap, often poorly made, and usually ends up in the bin or buried among the other knick-knacks, takeaway menus and birthday candles in the kitchen drawer.

Known as fast-tech", these low-cost electronics are increasingly common - from mini-fans and electric toothbrushes, to portable chargers and LED toilet seats, often bought for just a few pounds online.