Don’t Just Throw Electronics in the Trash! (Proper Disposal Tips)
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Do you remember back when you had your first computer or smartphone? You most likely held onto it for several years because it was such a big investment.
When technology first came on the scene, devices seemed to last a little longer. Now days, computers are usually replaced every three to five years and some people replace phones and other mobile devices every year or two.
Companies need to upgrade hardware to keep up with the demands of newer software, cloud systems, and other technology advancements that come much faster than they did in those early days.
But what this march of innovation leaves in its wake is a lot of electronic trash that people aren’t sure how to dispose of.
There is approximately 50 million tons of electronic waste tossed out globally each year, but only 20% of it is disposed of properly.
What can happen if you just throw your old electronics out in the trash?
Fines for Illegal Disposal
You could possibly face a fine if you don’t dispose of your electronics properly. There are 25 states that have enacted electronic recycling legislation, and some of them make it illegal to improperly dispose of electronics. For example, California bans the disposal of old TVs, batteries, and computers in landfills.
The problem with not handling the disposal of electronics responsibly is that they can often contain hazardous materials like:
· Lead
· Nickel
· Mercury
Security Risk
With the pace of hardware and electronics replacement, most companies can’t afford to keep storing outdated equipment. Keeping that equipment onsite can also pose a security risk.
If someone accidentally turns on an older computer running an outdated operating system that never had a Windows upgrade to the current version, a hacker could easily exploit an unpatched vulnerability to breach your entire network.
How to Dispose of Electronics the RIGHT Way
You have a few different options when it comes to disposing of your old computers, routers, printers, and mobile devices. By making sure to follow best practices for electronics disposal, not only are you ensuring you’re not violating any local laws, you’re also being a more sustainable business.
Take Electronics to a Recycling Center or Retailer
You’ll find two types of electronics recycling outlets that you can use for responsible disposal of old computers and other devices. These are typically either local recycling centers in your city or county and major electronics retailers.
Companies recycling electronics remove usable materials for reuse and then responsibly dispose of any parts that can’t be recycled.
The US EPA has a large list of retailers, like Best Buy, that will take your electronics off your hands. Many of these recyclers won’t charge you for disposing of your electronics.
Donate Your Electronics
If your computer or other electronics still have a few years of usable life in them, there are a number of charities that will be happy to have them as a donation and put them to good use.
Donating your electronics may even give you a tax deduction that you can claim when you file taxes.
Locally, you may want to check non-profits in your area, schools, churches, or after-school programs that could use computer donations.
Here are some of the nationwide programs designed to facilitate electronics donations:
· Goodwill & Dell Reconnect Program
Use an Electronics Buy-Back Program
If your electronics qualify, you could end up getting some money for an older computer or mobile device while responsibly disposing of it at the same time. Several electronics retailers offer buy-back & trade-in programs for qualifying devices.
If your devices qualify, you can add to your business bottom line and use the money towards an upgrade of your hardware.
Here are a few of the retailer trade-in/buy-back programs to check out:
· Best Buy
· Apple
· Amazon
· Sprint
· Target
Don’t Forget to Wipe Your Device
Make sure that before you sell, donate, or recycle your old electronics that you’ve wiped them properly.
This includes removing all files on the hard drive, clearing browser history and saved passwords, and removing any other data may be saved in system or software folders.
Some devices will have the ability to reset back to “factory conditions.” If you’re unsure that you’ve removed everything, then it’s a good idea to have an IT pro clean your device so you can ensure there’s no information on it that could be seen by someone else that may use the computer after it’s recycled.
Get Help with Hardware Upgrades & Computer Disposal Preparation
BrainStomp can help your company with strategic technology upgrades and help you ensure older electronics are cleared of all data and disposed of properly.
Contact us today to schedule a technology consultation! Call 260-918-3548 or reach out online.
