Overview
In a 2008 report, the Consumer Electronics Association estimated that U.S. consumers own 2.9 billion electronic devices, and in 2007, only 24 percent of disposed electronics were recycled. By donating or recycling your unwanted electronics, you can lessen your impact on the environment and allow your device to live on in a new form.
Significance
Many electronic devices contain hazardous materials that can contaminate drinking water and soil if they are placed in the trash and deposited at landfills. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that 2.25 million tons of electronic waste ended up in landfills in 2007, and that the rate of electronic waste is increasing.
Hazardous Materials
Older television sets contain cathode ray tubes (CRTs), about 20 percent of which contain lead, according to Earth911, an environmental-services company. CRTs are also a component of older computer monitors.
Lead is also present in cell phone coatings and batteries and computer circuit boards. Cell phone batteries may contain cadmium or lithium, the latter of which can explode. Mercury and cadmium can also be found in laptop lamps and circuit boards. Lead, mercury and cadmium can pose risks to health and the environment if they’re disposed of improperly.
Types
While toxic material is an important reason to recycle computers, televisions and cell phones, parts from most electronics can be reused, providing yet another reason to recycle. Computer peripherals, such as monitors, printers, keyboards, mouses and cables, are candidates for recycling. DVD players, VCRs, radios, fax machines and copiers can also be recycled.
Process
Earth911 reports that as much as 99 percent of an electronic device can be recycled and reused. Plastics and metals such as gold and copper can be removed from the device and sold or used in a different capacity. The toxic materials from the electronics are removed and disposed of properly.
Benefits
Recycling electronics reduces not only the amount of waste in landfills, but also the cost and energy required to manufacturer the materials used to create new products, the EPA states. If you choose to donate your functioning electronic devices, your donation is tax-deductible.
Sources
Some manufacturers of electronics, including Apple, Sony and Panasonic, offer no-cost recycling of products of their own brand, and may also accept products of other brands for free or a small fee. Electronics retailers may also have recycling programs. Functioning electronic devices that you no longer need or want can be donated to a school or local charity. The EPA website offers information on where to find electronics donation and recycling centers in your area.
