You or someone in your family probably received something with a microchip in it as a holiday gift. That means that you’ll probably be getting rid of your older electronics – like that old laptop, cell phone, camera, or GPS device very soon. But remember that most electronic gadgetry can and should be recycled. Just be sure to dispose of that gear responsibly.
With that in mind, here is some advice on how to recycle your unwanted or no longer needed electronics. And it’s all good advice:
- Start with the manufacturer – Most equipment makers now have “take back” programs, many of which are free. The retail outlet where you originally bought the item may also offer a recycling plan. Some retail outlets, such as Best Buy, will take any electronics regardless of where it was purchased. Also, many cities and other local municipalities now operate recycling programs as well.
- Recyclers beware; not all recyclers are created equal – Some outfits don’t recycle products. Instead they ship them to third-world countries where they are scrapped and melted down, often creating a problem worse than just dumping it all in a landfill. Ask your recycler what they do with recycled electronic gadgets.
- Donation is even better than recycling – If your equipment is still in working order, there’s no reason to recycle it. There are many charitable groups that will put it to good use.
- Erase personal data – It’s critical that you fully erase and scrub any hard drives, memory cards, and cell phone memory cards before you donate or scrap it. Used gear electronic is a common source for the information used for identity theft. Protect yourself.
- Start green – Many new electronics devices are using recycled or biodegradable materials when they are initially produced, making them more attractive for the environmentally conscious. When it comes time to purchase new electronics, consider these more environmentally-friendly products.
Tags: electronics, recycle