Recycling Articles : Recycling Electronics

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Over the years the lifespan of electronic equipment has decreased, to the point where our love of new technology means we are now dumping more discarded “old” electronics than ever in order to make way for newer, more high-tech possessions.

Electronic waste, or e-waste is now the fastest growing independant category of waste and forms 5% of all solid municipal waste worldwide. Unfortunately, it is also a very harmful form of waste in itself, containing and leaching into our earth, such substances as lead, mercy and non diodegradable plastic.

Perhaps it is time to consider a better approach to old technology, like outmoded computers, undersized mp3 players and other gadgets. The average lifespan of a computer is now as low as 2 years compared to 6 years in 1997. This consumerist need to rapidly update our technology has led to a massive increase of products and a massive increase of waste.

Unfortunately, many people simply dump their old computers or other technology without a second thought as to how this will effect the environent. There are many different types of charity or business schemes which donate second hand computers to projects in developing countries. If you need assistance in locating one of these schemes that will cater to your needs then a simple google search should suffice or your local municipal recycling officer will likely be able to provide details.

Even computrs that are no longer working will likely contain components that can be salvaged and sold or reused. In August 2005 an EU directive decided that all manufacturers of electrical equipment need to take responsibility for the disposal of their discarded products. This means, in theory, the manufacturer must accept the return of broken computers and accept the responsibility for their disposal.

It might be interesting to try this out whilst requesting that the company recycle as many of the components as possible. As well as this, some charity shops will accept old computers and electronic goods - even if they aren’t working. Some charity shops run regional workshops that will repair them although, obviously, its best to inform the manager of the state of the item before donating it.

In the end, its our own responsibility to properly dispose of the waste we create, especially if we choose to purchase new electronic equipment to “keep up with the Jones’s”. If we change our purchasing attitudes and prefer to buy products that can be recycled then this will support industry that chooses to produce more ethical products. For example, take a look at the new biodegradable laptops that you can buy - made mostly out of cornstarch!

Do the research and try your best to help the planet out. Remember to always treat the landfill as your last option and you’ll be doing your grandchildren a favour.

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