Before you toss that old computer, or even put that old mouse in the trash bin, take a moment to think about what you are doing and where that item is going. It’s better to find out if there is a safer way to get rid of these items, a way that is less likely to get you fined.
In fact, according to some research information, it can cost you up to $10,000 a day for improperly disposing of these types of items into a landfill. That’s a lot of money for something you probably could have donated or recycled.
Recycling Your E-Waste
Because the use of electronics has grown so much over the years, the Environmental Protection Agency (epa) has set new rules for disposing of this type of matter in a way that help the environment and doesn’t clog up landfills with toxins.
As far as recycling your items, you have a couple of basic choices. You can donate them to a place that will refurbish them to put them back in working order so that they can be sold or given to people in need. This keeps them out of landfills and also extends their life.
Or, you can simply drop them off at a recycling center that specializes or accepts this type of waste. With this option though you still have no guarantee they are properly disposing of the items.
Donating E-Waste
You can donate your old computers, smartphones, flash drives and more, as long as they are in working condition. Don’t donate something that doesn’t work just because you are too lazy to take it to the recycle place.
Even old business devices can be of use to someone starting out their own home office, so they will be looking for used items donated to thrift shops. Your old printer or laptop could be what lifts an entrepreneur off the ground.
Just remember these three things when donating your E-Waste (which may be someone else’s E-Treasure):
- Always clean out all your old data- The last thing you want is to donate something with client, or even business, data still inside of it. You never know who is going to get their hands on it.
- Always ensure it’s in working order- You don’t have to have the latest Windows set up in your old computer, but make sure the thing turns on and boots up before you donate it.
- Always include the accessories- If an item doesn’t have all of it’s plugs and connector cords, or it’s power source and charger, it’s less likely anyone is going to want it. In fact, if it’s outdated they probably could never find the missing parts to replace.
Waste less with these tips and you can feel good about helping the environment and other business minded people. Don’t forget, recycle, refurbish, reuse- there’s always a new home for old electronics.
