How to Deal with Old Technology
It's a common complaint: things just aren't built to last. This is true across the board, but especially so with technology--things change so quickly that a top-of-the-line device from five years ago is all but worthless now.
But when you are done with your tech, you should NOT just throw it in the trash. First and foremost, electronics waste can be extremely toxic, poisoning the land and the water, so they should be recycled properly. Secondly, a device that you no longer need man still be of use to someone else, and there are several programs to distribute those devices to people in need.
Generally, electronic waste contains toxic chemicals like mercury, lead or chromium; exposure to these chemicals can cause serious issues for our nervous and reproductive systems, so electronics should not go into landfills if at all possible.
And it's not just new gadgets that can be a hazard. Batteries pose a huge environmental danger when they leak into landfills, given the amount of toxic chemicals they may contain, including lithium, lead, and sulphuric acid. All of these can potentially contaminate waterways and eventually enter our drinking supply.
Additionally, it’s super important to scrub the device, so its next owner doesn’t have access to your private files. On tablets, laptops or phones, you should complete a factory reset which should wipe most of your information. If you are uncertain how to wipe your devices, you can search for a YouTube video on how to do so, or take your device to a repair shop and ask them to help you.
Yes, it is frustrating to try and find places that will recycle, but that doesn't mean it isn't important to try.
- How to wipe personal information from an Android device: https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/how-to-wipe-your-android-phone-or-tablet/
- How to wipe your personal information from an Apple device: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201351
- How to wipe a PC: https://www.wikihow.com/Wipe-a-Computer
- Electronic Waste (E-Waste): How Big of a Problem is it?: https://www.rubiconglobal.com/blog-electronic-waste-problem/
- The Burning Truth Behind an E-Waste Dump in Africa: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/burning-truth-behind-e-waste-dump-africa-180957597/
- https://lifehacker.com/how-do-i-recycle-old-batteries-1834215406
- https://lifehacker.com/how-to-sell-or-recycle-your-old-electronics-1834456060
Recycling / Trade-In Programs
Call2Recycle (find drop off locations)