What to do With Electronics Waste (E-waste)

Getting rid of old computers, stereo equipment, gaming consoles, etc. (all of which are known as E-waste) the environmentally responsible way can be a bit challenging.  There are a few options to consider though, rather than just taking them to the local landfill.

• First, make sure the electronic device still works.  If it does, find a Goodwill or Salvation Army location you can donate it to.  You can also sell it via Craigslist or Ebay and use the money to purchase a new system.
• For computers, make sure to wipe  your hard drive!  Before getting rid of electronics, be sure private information isn’t reused as well – get a professional to help if you’re unsure how to do it.
• If it doesn’t work, make sure to recycle it.  Local recycling centers for various materials can be found at http://earth911.com/blog/2009/05/26/want-to-recycleme/

• Have an “electronics exchange” party. Admission to the event  is one working electronics device that you are willing to trade. Everyone gets rid of the old, while getting something new.
• If donating, tell your friends, co-workers and family. If they have any old electronics, offer to take them with you.
• Offer to help your local school, daycare or charity have an electronics drive. If they can’t reuse the equipment, they can often sell it and raise funds.

Regardless of what you decide to do with your E-waste, please try and keep it out of the landfill because that doesn’t help the environment or anyone else that may want the equipment, if even just for spare parts.