How can our landfills keep up with our quickly advancing technology? Every day, there are newer, faster, better electronics for sale and our old computers, cell phones and televisions suddenly become "so yesterday."
In our throw-away society, we replace our outdated electronics with brand new ones, tossing aside the old that have quickly become outdated. But phones, televisions, computers and other electronics that end up in the garbage often contain dangerous bio-hazards and toxins that pollute the environment once they become trash.
Electronics that are still working can be reused or refurbished for a second life, or, if they are beyond repair, the parts can be recycled.
Many manufacturers are offering e-cycling; taking back used electronics for recycling. All of the big names in computers: Apple, Dell, HP, Toshiba, Gateway, Lenovo, Sony, Acer, etc. will take back e-waste for free or for a small fee (often you have to pay shipping). Check out the manufacturers websites for specifics.
You can even bring your electronics to stores like Circuit City, Best Buy or Staples where they will send them off for you to be refurbished and recycled. Motorola and Nokia will accept all brands of cell phones for free recycling. Check out Earth911.com for a list of e-cycling companies and programs.
Collective Good is a company that partners with charities and other companies to recycle and reuse old cell phones. They implement collection campaigns in communities to refurbish phones for developing nations and to raise funds for charity organizations.
The environmental benefits to recycling old electronics is obvious. And doing so is easier than you think. Earth911 and the US Environmental Protection Agency websites both provide comprehensive lists of local collection points and programs.
You can also consider donating gently used electronics to local schools, libraries or community centers.
Take action and e-cycle!
Source: BecauseAction.com
