You do not have to be a tech expert to know that electronics, even the most advanced ones, will not last for life. So, what happens to these technologies after they break down?
Most times, broken devices, like phones and computers, are left to waste away. But other times, these wastes can be recycled. Read on to discover more information about electronic recycling and its importance.
What Is Electronic Recycling?
Electronic recycling, computer recycling, or e-waste recycling refers to the proper disassembly of components and raw materials of waste or broken electronics. Although donation, reuse, and repair procedures are not the same as recycling, these three methods are the most common sustainable ways to get rid of discarded appliances.
According to a study, Canadians generate roughly 725,000 tonnes of e-waste in just one year. Moreover, only 20 percent of the waste is recycled correctly. The figure highlights how crucial it is to learn how to properly dispose of electronics.
Benefits of Electronic Recycling
Donating, repairing, or reusing old components has several benefits, including conservation of natural resources and environmental protection.
Conserves Natural Resources
Electronic recycling can help recover valuable materials from information technology (IT) products that are either broken, no longer used, or old. The process can help save and conserve natural resources.
Manufacturers can get raw materials through electronic recycling. Consequently, it also eliminates the need to collect exhaustible materials like copper, lead, or metal to create new products.
Protects the Environment
E-waste recycling also promotes environmental protection. It aims to prioritize processing, handling, and managing toxic and hazardous substances such as mercury, lead, and cadmium. These are all substances you may find in your electronic waste stream.
Today, there are professional recyclers who can disassemble and recycle your electronic waste for you. With expert help, you can ensure that your discarded electronics are safely disposed of or reused.
What You Can Do to Help
If you want to support and be a part of the electronic recycling effort, one simple thing to do is not to buy new devices until you need them. Before purchasing a product, try getting your old phone or laptop repaired if possible.
If you cannot have your device fixed, choose to resell, donate, or recycle it responsibly. But before you recycle broken devices, seal up any broken parts in separate bins to prevent leakage of hazardous chemicals. Do not forget to wear latex gloves and a mask before touching broken tech.
You should also look for a responsible recycler. When choosing a company or an organization to work with, make sure they will be able to reuse, disassemble, or repair your devices safely and properly.
The Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) is a non-profit dedicated to cutting down electronic waste by recycling and reusing discarded computers, laptops, and other electronic equipment.
The organization promises effective management of old IT equipment and proper data security handling, including data wiping and hard drive shredding. With ERA, you can rest assured that your old technologies will be recycled correctly and safely.
The Raw Materials In iPhones And Other Smart Devices