The dos and don’ts of electronic recycling

There has been a stiff rise in the number of communication device in the average life of a UK resident. From the latest versions of smartphones and tablets to computing and gaming gadgets, electronics is playing a huge role in the modern society. However, with it also comes the rising concern about the old and outdated devices/gadgets. Most often, old electronic gadgets are simply tossed into the bin to be sent to landfills, which in turn is making our land toxic and polluted. According to reports, UK will produce 65.4 million tonnes of electronic waste by 2017. 82% of these wastes go into landfills.

Recycling e-waste will not only make our earth less polluted by also help save a lot in production cost and mining. Every 10 million tonnes of e-waste consists nearly 20 tonnes of gold, 7 tonnes of platinum, and 400 tonnes of silver among other precious and reusable metals.

It is the responsibility of every individual to contribute to the cause of waste recycling, specifically when it comes to e-waste.
                                                       
What you can do:

• Consider donating for charity or reselling: For most of us, older devices are replaced just because a new version of the same is available. As opposed to throwing your old mobile phone into the dustbin, you can consider reselling or even donating to charitable organization. Someone will certainly find a use for it.
• Call special pickup services: Not all garbage collection companies provide special attention to e-waste.
• Erase any personal information/data: When throwing/recycling of hard drive, make sure you have erased all your personal information. There are special recycling service providers in UK who will help you with this process.
• Call up green recycling centers for non-commercial loads: In many cases, manufacturers take back old devices in exchange for new ones at a discounted price. Alternatively, you can also call upon recycling centers to buy your scrap.
• Always buy electronics with a longer life span and energy rating.
• Check for certifications of the recycling company.
• Do share the awareness and make others follow your footsteps, especially if you are associated with a business place.

What you shouldn't do:

• Throw electronic items into the same curb with other wastes.
• Just assume a recycling center to be environmentally responsible. Check their credentials.
• Give up everything in your trash bin. Ask experts on safe disposal methods.
• Buy products from manufacturer’s who don’t have a green policy
• Throw away used inkjet cartridges. They contain mercury and can be highly damaging for the soil and water table.

Britain ranks sixth in the world among the top contributor to e-waste. The major items that go into recycling include mobile phones, TVs, microwaves, fridges, flat screens and printers/cartridges. At the same time, Britain is also among the worst performing countries when it comes to e-waste recycling and management. Well, we can’t allow that to happen for long. Time is seriously running out and we need to take steps in conserving and saving our natural resources. E-waste recycling will also make the life on every Brit healthier.

Consumers across the globe are getting more concerned and conscious about e-waste recycling. Feel free to ask any questions if you are willing to contribute.