Options for Recycling Old Electronics
As people upgrade their electronics, they can be left with a stockpile of old cell phones, MP3 players, DVD players, TVs, laptops, digital cameras and more. Obviously selling these is a great alternative to letting them pile up, but if the technology is too outdated or the electronics are not in good shape, it may be hard to find buyers. If you find yourself in that situation, there are plenty of options available to recycle your electronics instead of holding onto them or tossing them in the garbage. Here are the top ways to recycle old electronics:
Trade-Ins
Some retailers offer the ability to trade-in electronics in exchange for money off of newer models. The retailers then refurbish your old electronics and sell them at a discount to shoppers looking for used merchandise. Policies will vary from retailer to retailer, but it is always worth asking at your local electronics store to see if you may be able to get something for the electronics that you are no longer using. Remember to look online as well! Many online retailers make a business of buying and trading unwanted electronics and some even offer free shipping to get the items to them.
Retail Recycling
Every year millions of electronics are improperly thrown away across the world, causing harmful ground and water pollution and filling up valuable landfill space. If you want to recycle your electronics responsibly, there are retailers that will take your old electronics for you and ensure that they are properly broken down and disposed of ethically. Be prepared though, some retailers may charge a fee for this service (especially for larger items).
Charity Donations
Old cell phones can be donated to battered women's organizations and shelters because these phones can still dial 911. Just be sure to donate the chargers with the phones if you still have them. Underprivileged students can also benefit from your old technology like desktop and laptop computers. These items can assist in their education by giving them access to better resources for school work.