Technology is all around us. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or even in a coffee shop, you’re surrounded by phones, computers, tvs, smart watches, and more. All of these technologies have a shelf life. Most of them contain harmful chemicals, or valuable resources, that shouldn’t end up in a landfill. So which of these electronics can be recycled?
The good news is that you are more than able to recycle nearly all of these technologies. However, the process of recycling differs based on the technology.
Computer and Laptops
Nearly every type of computer or laptop can be recycled. In those computers, only 2% of the material can’t be recycled. For every computer recycled, that means that those resources don’t have to be dug out of the ground. Often in ways that are incredibly hazardous to the environment.
The process for computer recycling is a straightforward one. E-Recyclers often have drop off-services, and some can even come to your location. Once they have the computer, they will test it to see if it can be refurbished, wiping all of the data on it to ensure there isn’t a security risk.
If it can’t be refurbished, it will be disassembled, and the recycler will remove all hazardous waste in compliance with EPA guidelines. After that, the equipment is run through a shredder, where the various materials are sorted and separated. Finally, it goes off to a secondary processor or manufacturer.
Cell Phones
Cell phones seem to have shorter and shorter lives. With upgrade plans, constant improvements, and providers offering new phone deals, it’s easy to replace a phone every couple of years. While some retailers will take your old phone as a trade-in, it’s not always an option.
If you’re left with an old phone, or phones, and are not sure what to do with it, recycling is a fantastic option. But first, make sure that all the old data is on your new device or in the cloud. Once it enters the recycling process it can’t come back.
The process is nearly identical to old computers, except the cell phones are typically smelted rather than shredded. Like computers, cell phone recycling saves tons of valuable resources from going into the landfill, helping to protect the environment.
TVs and Monitors
TVs typically stick around for longer than cell phones, but eventually, they will wear out. Or a deal on a new one will be too good to miss. The recycling process for TVs and monitors is a little more complicated, but still possible and worth doing.
TV recycling is even more important for the environment, particularly when it comes to old CRT TVs. LED, QLED, and CRTVs and monitors all contain hazardous and toxic materials that can leak into the soil and groundwater if not disposed of properly. CRT TVs are the worst offender, and some even contain up to 8 pounds of lead.
Taking your tv to a proper recycler, or having one come to you, can ensure that those toxic chemicals are properly disposed of.
Electronics Recycling Finder Can Help
No matter what technology you’re looking to recycle, Electronics Recycling Finder can help. Contact us today at (844) 648-4908 or fill out the form at the top right of the page, and we can help connect you with a recycling option that fits your needs in minutes.