Currently, in the world, technology development is alarmingly fast, which has created a constant increase in the electronic devices we use in our day-to-day lives only to end up as waste or replaced by new models. The wastes from these devices have become an area of environmental concern as is seen below. Hence, awareness on the use of proper means and methods of disposal of the old and disposal or recycling of used electronics. Not only does it stop the electronic waste, but more importantly in this process after reclaiming materials and elements used.
1. Support charities
The second way that is even better than selling is donating to used electronics organizations that provide reconditioned gadgets to the inhabitants. These organizations include donating Computers, Tablets and Smartphones to needy individuals, students or non-profit organizations. Here are a few charities to consider:
National Cristina Foundation
- Re-Boot Inc.
- The Renew Network
- Computers with Causes
- World Computer Exchange
It should also be noted that patrons should be able to return the units in good condition and without data, if possible. Most of these charitable organizations will also arrange to have the devices collected from you, making the donation exercise hassle-free.
2. Sell or trade in your devices
If you want to upgrade to the latest technological gadgets you can sell or trade in your old gadgets. Large companies like Amazon, Gazelle, and Best Buy among others have trade-in options where, depending on the state, dealer, and model of your device, they will give you an instant online price for the gadget. You can then trade this quote on a new device or be given store credit.
3. The recycling programs of Electronics
Most countries and companies provide their consumers with convenient opportunities to recycle their outdated electronics. Many of these programs will accept almost any kind of electronics such as computers, cell phones, TVs and a lot more. Some organizations do not accept all kinds of electronics and have specific rules on requirements on what you need to do before you can donate them – so it is recommended to look up these guidelines before dropping off your devices.
Some popular electronics recycling programs include:
- Call2Recycle
- Dell Reconnect
- The Recycling Zone
- Apple's Recycling Program
4. E-waste recycling facilities
There are other particular centres for the processing of e-waste as they recycle particular electronic waste. These centres have the required technology to dismantle and recycle all the parts that make up the hardware in the electronics. For the location of e-waste drop-off centres, search on the internet or go to your local waste disposal centre to find out when the next e-waste collection is going to happen.
5. Environmental management for scrap: recycling programs of responsible manufacturers
Most of the manufacturers of electronics such as Samsung, Sony and HP have taken the initiative of providing their consumers with take-back programs. Both of these programs offer customers pre-arranged shipping labels to guarantee that the recycling process remains affordable and hassle-free.
6. Actual landfill sites where residents can dump their e-waste
Occasionally, the landfills contain specific sections where people dump electronic waste in the landfills. If other forms of recycling are not possible, then this should be the next best option on which to focus. One has to bear in mind that when you landfill electronic waste it poses a very big threat to the environment hence it should be done under any circumstance.
7. The correct approach to take while recycling.
It takes little measures for you to spread awareness about the subject of proper e-waste disposal and recycling. Let friends and members of your family, fellow employees, and other people know about this, to join in donating and recycling old electronics. Social media are effective in increasing people’s awareness and extension of coverage will be able to reach more people.
For that reason, donating and recycling the used electronics is one way to reduce the amount of e-waste, as well as the impact on our environment. As there are many choices nowadays such as donating to charity, using recycle bins, and properly recycling through e-waste centres, everybody can help to build a better future. Please try to make proper decisions about your retired gadgets and share what has been said here today about e-waste management. In this way, society also can do something to preserve all our natural reserves for future generations.