Due to the rapid pace of technological advancements, we will always have updated gadgets and products to replace those that have become obsolete. But what should be done with the old gadgets then? 

 

Let’s discuss recycling old computers, batteries, and other electronics.

 

E-Waste

Toxic chemicals present in e-waste include cadmium, beryllium, lead, flame retardants, and mercury. As a result of improper disposal, these chemicals may end up in the air, soil, and water. These toxic elements in electronic waste leach into the water and soil when they are disposed of in a landfill. Those chemicals are introduced to the environment when contaminated water reaches the water table.

 

Why should We Recycle E-waste?

Metals and plastic from e-waste are used to manufacture more electronics. But this isn’t an easy process. In spite of technology that could recycle 95 percent of these metals, the UN report estimates cobalt recovery rates at 30 percent. Recycled metals are up to 10 times more efficient than metals smelted from virgin ore, and they are used in laptops, smartphones, and electric car batteries. The development of effective reuse methods is crucial to ensuring a sustainable manufacturing and recycling process

Electric and electronic waste can be categorized into three broad categories based on their size and toxicity:

• Bulky: Water heaters, refrigerators, washing machines, and anything too big to transport yourself.

• Hazardous: Tubelights, light bulbs, toner cartridges, batteries, monitors, and screens can be hazardous. Basically, anything with a chemical component. The batteries of laptops and phones are not included in this category, even if they have batteries unless they are bloated from overheating.

• Non-Hazardous: Cables, chargers, microwaves, laptops, and smartphones are non-hazardous. You should remove your data from your gadgets before disposing of them.

Safe Waste Disposal Techniques

Now let’s discuss a few safe waste disposal techniques and some suggestions on how to reuse electronics.

 

Recycle Old Gadgets by Taking Them to a Certified Recycler

Finding a reputable recycler is the easiest and safest way to dispose of e-waste. Make sure your company is certified by the Basel Action Network (BAN). BAN is a non-profit organization consisting of recycling companies that focus on safe and responsible disposal methods. Its members are required to sign responsibility pledges and display them prominently. You won’t need to worry about losing your personal information or polluting the planet if you work with a certified e-waste recycling company.

 

Offer Your Electronic Devices for Sale

To get rid of your old phone, laptop, or other gadgets when you buy a new one, you can sell them. Selling old technology on sites such as eBay and Craigslist is a great idea. Vintage electronics, such as Nintendo games, are very valuable. In many places, electronic shops may buy old radios, computers, and similar other electronic devices.

 

 

Donating Old Electronic Devices

There are many organizations and businesses that offer electronic donation programs. If you have gently used but no longer wanted devices, you can easily donate them to local schools, non-profits, underserved populations, or community groups. Through your donation, you can help provide access to knowledge and social connection that will have a huge impact on the planet and on the empowered individuals who inherit your electronics.

 

 

Find a Drop-Off Site for E-Waste

Look for local recycling services and programs in the phone book to find a community or other drop-off locations. You can also get information about recycling locations in your community by calling your local waste management program.

Look on the website of your product’s manufacturer or the store where you purchased it for recycling options, or do a search for local recycling centers for computers, electronics, and batteries. There are a number of websites that offer information about drop-off locations in each region, including Earth911, myGreenElectronics, and Call2Recycle (Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation).

So, whether you need a bin rental service we will ensure your garbage and recycling bins are dropped off and picked up on time and that all your waste gets delivered to the nearest appropriate recycling facilities.