E-Waste Recycling Questions – Answered!
There are many things that can stand between doing the right thing and dumping our e-waste into a landfill needlessly. Fortunately, some of those issues go away with the right information. Here are some common questions about recycling technology.
My machine is quite old – is it worth recycling?
It is true that many places will no longer accept donations of old equipment and technology if the product is considered out of date. Television sets are a prime example and can hardly be given away! But if your machine is more than 5 years old, it should be recycled.
How do I know if my recycling is “dangerous?”
One of the main goals of properly disposing of e-waste is to reduce the danger to people and the environment. Televisions and computer monitors that contain cathode ray tubes or anything with an LCD screen or plasma is particularly toxic. Still, many disreputable “recyclers” break apart these and other items for their precious metals. If not handled properly, the consequences can be dire.
But I have serious security needs!
This is a common problem for school systems, nonprofits and businesses alike. A reputable recycling service can make sure that any data is stripped, hard drives are shredded and your security concerns are accounted for.
What is the real environmental impact?
While it is true that e-waste represents a small percentage of the overall waste in a landfill, it represents a tremendous 70% of all toxic damage present in landfills. Further, some research indicates it takes 48 pounds of chemicals and 1.5 tons of water as well as over 500 pounds of fossil fuels just to produce one computer and monitor. The environmental damage can happen both in the production of and the disposal of the product.
Does this really make a difference?
One million laptops recycled is the energy equivalent of saving the electricity used by over 3,600 United States homes. It can seem like one person cannot make a difference, but collectively it certainly adds up.
Why make sure this is done properly?
Less reputable recyclers simply want to get to the precious metals in the products thrown away, leaving the environment and human life at risk. A reputable recycler is EPA compliant.
How can I recycle my e-waste?
Check to see if the manufacturer has a take-back policy (most will) or if your community participates in any group technology recycling days. If not, or if you question the way in which the company will dispose of the product, contact a reliable recycling service.