Old, unwanted technology can severely damage the environment if not recycled properly. Discover how to tackle this issue.
In this day and age, technology is evolving at the speed of light. New, more advanced gadgets are released every month, making our older devices obsolete and irrelevant. So, our laptops, tablets, cell phones, and other gadgets become electronic waste. However, you can’t just dump them in the trash when time comes. Considering there’s more and more e-waste each year due to quickly developing technology and growing demand for new tech, how do you properly dispose of unwanted technology, without harming the ecosystem? Read our guide below to find out. Want to make your electronics last longer? Take a look at our 6 Tricks To Ensure The Lifespan Of Your Laptop.
Why Proper Disposal is Important?
Properly recycling your old gadgets is crucial for several reasons. First, you will secure your sensitive personal information. Phones, cameras, computers, etc. contain a great deal of private information that can be exploited if it gets into the wrong hands. But most importantly, electronic devices contain many chemicals that are harmful to the environment. E-waste has such toxic substances as lead, lithium, mercury, and more. If not properly disposed, old electronics can contaminate the surrounding environment and cause irreversible damage.
If unwanted gadgets end up in a landfill, the toxic chemicals would eventually seep into the ground, potentially ending up in the water or polluting the atmosphere, further increasing the scope of the damage. So, it’s safe disposal of electronic waste is of the utmost importance.
What To Do With Unwanted Technology?
There are several environmentally friendly ways to dispose of used devices. So, to protect yourself and the environment, you can do the following.
Sell It
Even if you think your technology items are too outdated, you can still sell them. Not only will you be helping the environment, but you can also receive some cash to offset the costs of your new gadgets. For example, Gadget Salvation buys back a variety of electronic items, including laptops, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and more. The process is very easy and straightforward. You just need to search for your device, enter some information about it to receive an estimate, and ship your gadget using provided free shipping label. You will extend the life of your device, reduce waste, and receive some cash!
Donate It
There are many charities, schools, senior centers, and non-profit organizations that would be happy to take your used electronics off your hands. You can contribute to a greater good, help the environment, and receive a tax break on the next year’s tax return. Here are some programs to consider, and of course there are many more.
- Dell Reconnect & Goodwill: you can donate your computer and peripherals, including monitors, printers, scanners, speakers, Xbox, webcams, and more. The organization would refurbish and sell old devices to people in need at affordable prices.
- World Computer Exchange: the organization uses computer donations to build computer labs in primary schools and colleges in developing countries.
- Cell Phones for Soldiers: after you donate a cell phone, the organization resells it and the proceeds go towards prepaid calling minutes for soldiers deployed overseas.
Recycle It
There’s a good chance that there’s an established electronics recycler in your area. Usually, you can choose between municipal recycling, private recycling, and national program recycling. For example, Call2Recycle provides drop-off locations for rechargeable batteries and cell phones all over the US. Also, some cities offer collection days for electronics.
Lastly, check if your device’s manufacturer will take the product back for recycling. Many companies these days allow users to return unwanted technology, though you might be charged a small fee. Once accepted, your e-waste will either be completely recycled by the manufacturer or refurbished for future use.
Conclusion
There are many ways to properly dispose of unwanted technology and reduce your e-waste footprint. It’s important to get rid of your used electronics in a safe manner to avoid any long-lasting consequences for the environment. Whether you sell, donate, or recycle your items, don’t forget to erase any data and personal information stored on them.
