Caring for the environment, Climate change, Rubbish & recycling, sustainability  |  Yesterday

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Christchurch students are learning hands-on skills while simultaneously diverting waste from landfill and fostering digital equity for kiwis.

Digital Future Aotearoa’s Recycle A Device (RAD) programme provides old electronics a second life, taking donated laptops and teaching young people skills to repair the devices, which are then recycled back into the community.

Apply for funding for your project

Applications for the Waste Minimisation Grant open on 1 May and close on 31 May 2025.

If you think your project could contribute towards waste avoidance, the reduction of waste to landfill and recovery of resources, check your eligibility for funding at ccc.govt.nz/waste-minimisation. 

“Over 100,000 kiwi homes don’t have access to a laptop – RAD is a powerful solution to this digital divide,” says Digital Future Aotearoa General Manager Bronwyn Scott.

The programme works with schools, libraries, marae, social service providers and other community partners who know their communities best. These groups identify families in need of the service, prioritising equity, dignity and impact.

“For students, it’s a gateway to learning, job opportunities, and digital confidence,” Bronwyn says.

“For refurbishers, it’s real-world STEM training and leadership in action. And for the planet, it’s sustainability in motion – diverting tonnes of electronics from landfill.”

Last year 658 rangatahi attended the RAD programme. 2,920 laptops were gifted into the community and 5.8 tonnes of e-waste was given a new life.

“RAD is a smart, community-powered way to bridge the digital divide and uplift Aotearoa,” says Bronwyn.

“It is the most economical, education focused, community minded and planet-friendly way to ensure our young people are able to participate in the digital world.”

Last year, the programme received funding through the Canterbury Waste Minimisation Grant, established by the Canterbury Joint Waste Committee (CWJC). 

The Grant is available for projects with broad regional application in Canterbury that promote effective and efficient waste management and minimisation.

Applications for the Waste Minimisation Grant open on 1 May and close on 31 May 2025.

If you think your project could contribute towards waste avoidance, the reduction of waste to landfill and recovery of resources, check your eligibility for funding via our website.

Head to recycleadevice.nz to donate, sponsor, or learn more about RAD.