When you’re ready to get rid of electronics, you should always start by looking at local retailers and electronics brands to see if you can trade-in your device for some cash or credit. It’s one of the easiest ways to deal with electronics that you need to get rid of! However, for many older devices, a trade-in option will not be possible.
You shouldn’t just throw these devices away in the trash! First, many of them have valuable and toxic metallic or chemical components that don’t belong in a landfill or anywhere else. Second, there are methods that can scrap electronics for materials that can be re-used, although it takes professional recycling services to do it safely. When you’re ready to get rid of your electronics, here’s where you should look.
Start with Call2Recycle
This is one of the easiest places to begin: The Call2Recycle website! This service is particularly great when you need to recycle batteries. The website will give you a number of local places where you can drop off shipments of batteries to get rid of them. If you’re a business, you can also look for recycling programs that you can participate in to regularly recycle your batteries. Many locations also support recycling for cell phones, although you should always make sure that phones are accepted before dropping them off.
Look for Manufacturer Recycling Programs
Even if you can’t find a trade-in option, you should take a look at the manufacturer’s website or give them a call and ask about recycling options for their devices. Many brands will offer their own recycling programs where you can drop off or mail-in devices for recycling. You may not get anything in return, but it is an effective way to make sure your electronics are properly recycled.
Check with Your Local Recycling Centers
Many local recycling centers now offer specific e-waste recycling for all kinds of devices. That doesn’t mean you can just dump your electronics in a recycling bin! Instead, check your city or county website for information on recycling electronics. They will typically recommend a recycling center or transfer station where you can drop off your electronics. This includes all kinds of devices, like scanners, speakers, mice, copiers, surge protectors, stereos, microwaves, and much more.
If Possible, Donate
If the devices still work (and don’t need repairs to make them usable), consider donating them instead. Many nonprofits would be happy to get working electronics that they can use or pass on. Just make sure to call ahead and see if they accept electronics before you drop them off! You should also clean these devices and, if they’ve been in storage a while, give them a quick test to make sure that they are still functioning.
Need help with more specific recycling questions? Let us know! Call Debris Box today about any cleanup projects or recycling problems you may be facing, and we’ll be sure to point you in the right direction.
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