There are more electronics on our planet now, than ever before.
Why is it Important to Dispose of Electronics Properly?
If you’re wondering why it’s important to dispose of electronics, then we have all the answers you need. Firstly, old electronics release toxic chemicals. For example, they expose lead, mercury, cadmium and chromium. By properly disposing electronics, these materials aren’t then released into the environment.
Also, they may contain other heavy metals and potentially toxic chemical flame retardants. Also, electronic waste contains precious metals. These are estimated to be between 40-50 times richer than ores mined from the earth. As the electronics industry is now so big, along with solid waste, it’s rapidly growing. As a result, we need to become more conscious of how we’re removing waste to save our precious planet.
Furthermore, studies have found in countries where recycling isn’t promoted, local residents become exposed to toxins in the air. With the continued use of improper recycling of electronics, this is quickly becoming a health concern for people. Every year, millions of tons of e-waste are dumped in landfills. With the electronics industry continuing to grow, the turnover will increase in future years. Our landfills are rising at a quick rate. When organizations dump e-waste and neglect it, this leads to toxic elements polluting the environment. As a result, it poses a serious health risks to humans, animals and even plants.
Another reason to properly dispose of electronics is to donate to local organizations and help charities. No matter where you live, there is someone around you who’s struggling. Instead of releasing toxins into our environment, pass along your goods to others. Finally, electronics use around 10-15 percent of the gold on earth. This means that more gold has to be mined to replace this loss. Of course, this then means that more chemicals and pollution are released into the environment.
Electronics You Can Recycle
You might be wondering which electronics you can dispose. The WEEE wheelie bin logo presents on the product, packaging and documentation of your electrical goods is great start. If you can’t see this logo, then this checklist which might help to guide you in the right direction.
- If it has batteries, a plug and needs a charger, then you can dispose of these electronics.
- You shouldn’t dispose of electronics with your normal waste.
- If you have a vast collection of electronics, you can contact your local authority to pick them up and dispose of electronics responsibly. However, do consider that there could be a fee for this.
- Use an online search tool to search for local recycling centers in your area which provide general information on recycling.
How to Properly Dispose of Electronics
Now that you’re aware of the detrimental effects of not recycling electronics, it’s time to take action. Here are some easy ways to dispose of electronics and act responsibly for our planet. Ensure you take a thorough read of these – but most importantly – take action. Pass these tips and tricks onto your friends and family too.
Step 1. Donate Your Electronics
Firstly, we suggest for someone else to reuse your recycles. If they’re still in working order, you can pass them tonto people who won’t ordinarily have access to it. On the other hand, if it’s not quite in working order, why not visit a local technician to save its life? Many organizations around the country would be eternally grateful to receive a kind donation to pass onto those who are less fortunate. For example, Salvation Army, Goodwill, Cell Phones for Soldiers and more are great organizations to help out with. Furthermore, Gazelle is a marketplace which provides cash incentives if you’re trying to raise money for non-profit or school organizations.
When you run a programme with Gazelle, people in your community drop off their electronics. You then ship all of these items to Gazelle and they’ll check they’re in working order for donation. Gazelle will then sell these electronics and donate to charity, or recycle them responsibly. This is a great way to ween yourself into e-recycling if you’re a little overwhelmed of where to go and what to do.
Step 2. Pass Your Electronics to a Certified E-Waste Recycler
E-waste recycling has so many positive aspects to it which you shouldn’t ignore. Firstly, find an e-waste recycler who is officially certified by BAN. This is a non-profit organization of a handful of recycling companies. They are dedicated to disposing of electronics properly and responsibly. By working alongside a certified e-waste recycler, this means you don’t have to worry about polluting the environment. Also, all staff have to pledge and display their recycling responsibilities to the public. This gives people peace of mind knowing that they’re not losing their belongings to thieves.
Step 3. Sell Your Old Electronics
If you’re looking to dispose of electronics and earn some extra cash, then consider selling your unused electronics. Many companies also take broken, cracked and damaged electronics and give you cash. Register for online websites such as eBay, Craigslist and more. Alternatively, hold a garage sale to help you get rid of your outdated electronics. Also, you can visit your local electronics shop, as they’re usually happy to take of your old electronics for cash. Check your lofts and wardrobe for vintage, limited edition games too. For example, an old Nintendo game might bring you more cash than you expect.
Step 4. Take Electronics to an Apple Store
There are many websites out there which will take back old CDs, DVDs, computers, printers, cords, cables and more. Many of these give you money – even if it’s not a considerable amount – it’s still something in return. However, if you own an Apple product, you can mail it back to them or take it into your local Apply store. As a result, they’ll give you a discount on a new device. This is a great way to reduce e-waste, and claim some benefits yourself too.
Interesting and Quirky Recycled Products
Ensuring you dispose of electronics responsibly is important. Also, there are many other materials we can recycle to reduce our carbon footprint. This includes: glass, plastic, metal, paper and more. Recycling is a great way to turn one product into another. There are so many amazing gifts you can purchase for yourself or someone else made from recycled materials. Here are some interesting and quirky recycled products you’ll love.
1. Natural Bamboo Toothbrush - Soft BPA Free Nylon Bristles
As you use this toothbrush, your teeth will be as neat as ever. This is because it features a waveform design to adapt your teeth shape. This will not only clean the surface of your teeth, but also clean in-between your teeth. This brush has been tested and proven to be 100% perfect for you to use.
The extra soft bristles protect your sensitive gums from bleeding or scratching so your will never be injured as you brush your teeth. You’ll love that this bamboo toothbrush is just what you need to make a positive impact on our environment.
Made with 100 percent recyclable natural material, it keeps your mouth fresh and reduces the negative impact on the environment. This brush is made with BPA free nylon bristles. It comes with individual number enable easily tell every brush apart. You`ll always remain healthy.
2. Vivaterra Recycled Glass Balloon Vase
Add a touch of intrigue to your home décor with these unique glass balloon vases. Each is artfully crafted of recycled glass to resemble a balloon, giving it a touch of childish charm and whimsy. Each vase looks great when holding tall flowers or branches. Alternatively, they're delightful simply as an addition to your sustainable, eco-friendly accent décor in any room of the house. Due to their recycled nature, they ooze charm and individuality. Therefore, expect a slight product variation in shape, size and colour, as well as quirks like small bubbles suspended in the glass.
3. Highwood Lehigh Garden Chair
This versatile Highwood Conversation/Coffee table has a sturdy pedestal and a generous 48” diameter table top. Find yourself comfortably cradled and lulled into a peaceful, tranquil state. It’s proven to withstand the harshest climates (from the ice of Alaska to the heat of Arizona, from mountains to salty coastal regions). We love that this product is made from 100 percent recycled plastic, eco-friendly and proprietary materials.
How Do You Dispose of Electronics?
We hope the above tips help you to responsibly dispose of electronics. Life can get messy and busy sometimes. However, nothing is more important than saving our earth. Spend some extra time reducing your carbon footprint and toxic waste. With so many chemicals daily released into the air, it’s time we took a stance and made a difference.
Do you have any tips of ways to dispose of electronics? If so, share your advice and thoughts in the comments to pass on a positive message.
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