In an age of rapidly developing digital technologies, our society generates a multitude of electronic waste each way. This e-waste must be handled appropriately, for several reasons. Consider the following crucial issues, then discover how easy it can be to recycle your electronics.
E-waste should not go in landfills
If it is not disposed of properly, e-waste can be dangerous. The toxic substances and metallic components found in electronic devices can leach into the surrounding soil. This can contaminate waterways and the air. To prevent this dangerous contamination, electronic waste must be properly recycled rather than tossed in landfills. If you need to dispose of electronics, partner with your local waste management professionals to ensure your products are handled safely.
Recycling reuses valuable resources
Electronic devices are made of valuable materials. Metals such as silver and gold as well as aluminum and copper are common components. Other resources such as glass and plastic also make up these devices. When electronic products are thrown away rather than recycled, all of these materials are wasted. The fact is, nearly 100 percent of electronic devices can be recycled. Unfortunately, people often don’t understand how to recycle e-waste, so we lose these valuable resources to landfills.
Recycling reduces demand
If products are recycled rather than dumped as e-waste, valuable materials can be reclaimed. This means there will be a lower demand for raw materials to create new components. This can help conserve resources as well as keep costs lower.
Recycling reduces pollution
When raw materials must be used to manufacture electronic products, the process generates greenhouse gas emissions. If more components are recycled, there will be less need for these manufacturing processes that add to pollution.
How to recycle e-waste
To start taking advantage of the many benefits of recycling e-waste, consider the many ways you can recycle electronic devices. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s website offers a list of recycling programs. You can also search online for organizations in your area that rebuild and reuse electronic items. You can also donate your devices to programs that provide items to those who cannot otherwise afford them.
If you need to dispose of e-waste and are unable to find an organization to accept a donation of your used items, you can also contact a waste management company that knows how to recycle e-waste. Look for a company that specializes in environmental solutions. These experts can help you properly dispose of your devices so they can be recycled rather than end up in a landfill.
Your environmental solutions experts
For leading waste and environmental solutions, contact CIWA, Inc. We provide zero-waste programs, equipment purchasing, leasing and more. Our innovative services set us apart from any other waste management company. We work closely with various types of establishments, from industrial corporations and facilities to small businesses, to reduce e-waste and save valuable manpower, time and money. Give us a call today to learn more about what has made us a leader in waste management since 1994. Reach our e-waste experts at 408-261-4110.