Recycle your E-Waste in an Environmentally and Socially Responsible Way
Source: slate.com
Computers, TVs, cell phones, and other electronic waste can be tricky and dangerous to recycle because they contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium. Worse yet, e-waste often ends up in makeshift salvage yards in third world countries, where workers use personally and environmentally dangerous methods to process the waste. Fortunately, there are ways to ditch your e-waste safely and responsibly.
If your electronics are working and not too old, you may want to donate or sell them instead of throwing them away. Check if friends or relatives need your old machines, or donate your e-waste to a reputable refurbisher.
However, machines more than five years old should be recycled. Try to use a processor that is a member of the e-Stewards program. These companies have pledged not to export hazardous electronic waste to developing countries. If you can’t access one of them, try using a manufacturer-sponsored recycle program or utilize the collection programs from electronics stores like Best Buy or Staples.