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Lesley Graybeal

Guide to Recycling and Destruction of Electronic Scrap

How to safely recycle electronic scrap and avoid dumping hazardous e-waste


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In today's world of changing technology, computers, TVs, and other electronic equipment quickly becomes obsolete and next year's model replaces it. But what happens to all of these old electronics?

Electronics contain both valuable precious metals and toxic chemicals, so destruction of electronic scrap isn't easy. Instead, you need to ensure that your electronics make it into the hands of an electronic scrap recycling company that can effectively recycle the materials that can be recycled and dispose of those that are hazardous.

When selecting a company for destruction of electronic scrap, consider the following:

1. Find out what types of e-waste companies accept.

2. Get a quote on the recycling and destruction of electronic scrap.

3. Order hazardous waste containers and schedule a pickup for the containers online.

4. Consider reselling your electronics rather than donating them.

5. Check out a recycling program before giving them your electronics to make sure your computer won't be exported to a developing country.


Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find out what kind of electronic scrap recycling programs accept


Programs for the recycling and destruction of electronic scrap all accept different types of electronic. Most will specify that they accept all types of computers, televisions and electronic accessories, or that they only accept computers and computer accessories.

I recommend: Individual electronic scrap recycling programs may list what electronics they accept online, or you may need to request a report.  If you have a local recycling service, contact them to find out if they recycle electronic scrap, or contact your local waste management company to find out if they deal with the destruction of electronic scrap.

Get a quote for recycling electronic scrap


Many electronic scrap recycling companies offer quick quotes online for all of their different services. Because recycling electronic scrap can be complicated, some companies may require you to call and talk to a representative to determine your e-waste management needs.

I recommend: Get a quick quote online for recycling electronic scrap, or get a quote on multiple services in addition to electronics recycling, including preparing computers for charitable donation. Some companies, such as EWaste Services and LEI may require that you contact them with an inquiry to receive a free quote.

Order containers for the recycling and destruction of electronic scrap


Destroying electronic scrap can create hazardous materials, so when recycling electronic scrap request appropriate containers for the shipment of your e-waste. Some companies offer online order of containers and shipment for recycling outdated electronics.

I recommend: Order storage containers online to pack up your waste for the electronic scrap recycling company. You can also schedule a pick up for recycling electronic scrap--simply pack your scrap electronics and have them picked up by the recycling company.

Consider recycling electronic scrap for a fee


Some companies will offer to purchase your used electronics, allowing you to profit from recycling electronic scrap rather than pay a company to remove it for you. Companies may purchase your electronics for the scrap metal or for resale.

I recommend: Contact a company about using a machine to extract the scrap metal for resale rather than paying someone else to take your used electronics. Rather than recycling electronic scrap, you can also resell the entire piece of equipment with a company that specializes in cleaning, refurbishing and reselling used electronics.

Check out company profiles before recycling electronic scrap


Don't trust just any company to recycle electronic scrap safely and responsibly. Check out electronic scrap recycling solutions for legitimate and safe disposal.

I recommend: Use an organization like Charity Watch to check out any nonprofit organization offering to donate or recycle electronic scrap materials.  Some organizations do not actually have the technology to effectively recycle and dispose of electronic waste, and may in fact export waste to foreign landfills.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

  • While many electronic scrap recycling companies offer data destruction and ensure that computers submitted for recycling or destruction do not contain sensitive material, be sure to take steps yourself to eliminate electronic and physical data before donating. Erase the hard drives on computers and also remove asset tags that may identify you or your company as the owner.

The official source of Recycling and Destruction of Electronic Scrap is
the Recycling and Destruction of Electronic Scrap page at Business.com

Featured Vendors

PC Recycling and Proper Disposal
Offers IT equipment disposal and recycling services nationwide. Features EPA permitted, DOD class data cleansing and free shipping.
www.PCdisposal.com

Electronics Disposal
Shipping company offering disposal programs for obsolete electronics, including environmentally sound recycling and referrals to charitable groups.
www.moveit.com

Nationwide Computer Recycling
Data destruction and recycling of obsolete technology
www.ewasteservices.org

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