The public’s demand for smaller, faster and internet ready is growing. Holiday wish lists are sure to be full of requests for IPads, Kindles, and smart phones. As these devices become more accessible, the home desktop becomes another piece of dusty furniture.
What is to become of these outdated pc’s as more people replace them with newer technology. Most people are tossing their old electronics, and the waste is starting to add up. According to GreenPeace, 20 to 50 million tons of e-waste is discarded globally every year.
These electronics contain hazardous materials such as mercury and lead that can pollute our air, soil and water. Instead of trashing our old computers and cell phones, electronic companies and retailers are encouraging the public to recycle them.
Computers can be refurbished or picked at for parts. The parts that are recyclable obviously include the glass and plastic, but more importantly the cathode ray tube or (CRT), batteries, and cables. These parts contain toxic materials.
Refurbished computers can be resold at lower prices for homes that cannot afford new ones or donated to schools and other charitable organizations. Many retailers such as Best Buy, Staples and Office Depot accept your old computers and charge a small disposal fee.
Mobile phones are quickly replacing the pc and over 130 million phones are tossed each year. The phone had a lifeline of 18-24 months with one owner and becomes replaced when they have the option to upgrade. Verizon, AT&T and Sprint want customers to recycle their old phones so that they can be donated as well.
Mobile phones contain toxic materials that can harm the environment and nearly every piece of the device is recyclable. Recycling one phone saves enough energy to power one laptop for 44 hours. Motorola, Nokia, LG, and Sony have set up websites that include information on how to recycle your old electronics.
If recycling is not on your agenda, then organizations that pay for your old electronics may be the winning ticket. Cell for cash.com tells you what they will pay for your phone and Gazelle. Com will offer you a bid for your old electronics.
Recycling your old electronics is easy and the information is out there. You can visit mygreenelectronics.com to locate local recycling drop off points by zip code and category. Let’s build tech savvy generations, not mountains of Zach Morris reminders in landfills.
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