by Megan McLaughlin
Its the holiday season and you’re probably resting after a long weekend of shopping, right? Probably not the case for many of us, but in this time of buying and gift giving, you may want to consider giving back…to the environment. If a new computer or other electronic device tops your holiday wish list, consider recycling your old devices if they are no longer in usable/”sellable” condition.
The EPA is out to educate the US on how to recycle electronics. Through awareness alone, we can begin to be more thoughtful when it comes to disposing of old, seemingly useless electronics. The EPA’s “eCycling” page offers information and solutions to recycling electronics; what, where, when and how.
The Facts: “Because consumer electronics like personal computers, TV’s, cellphones, and stereo equipment contain lead and a variety of other hazardous materials, eCycling, the recycling of electronic equipment, helps protect the environment. And because electronics are becoming obsolete at an ever faster rate, their volume is growing two to three times faster than any other type of waste. It is projected that 500 million personal computers have been taken out of service from 2000 and 2007.”
Through the EPA’s eCycling website, you can learn where to recycle your unwanted electronics. They also recommend donating, of course, because let’s be honest…no one is going to buy your Nokia cell phone from 2002 off your eBay account. Instead of throwing old cellphones out, you can donate them or find a way to recycle them. And that is just one example!
For related information check out these links:
The right way to recycle batteries
Waste Management for a Modern World
Reducing consumer waste: It’s not just about the cans and bottles
